The Two First Comedies (Andria, The Eunuch) Terence The text of this play is part of an enriched version of the TCP digital transcription A13613 of text S102998 in the English Short Title Catalog (STC 23897). Textual changes and metadata enrichments aim at making the text more computationally tractable, easier to read, and suitable for network-based collaborative curation by amateur and professional end users from many walks of life. The text has been tokenized and linguistically annotated with MorphAdorner. The annotation includes standard spellings that support the display of a text in a standardized format that preserves archaic forms ('loveth', 'seekest'). Textual changes aim at restoring the text the author or stationer meant to publish. Martin Mueller Incompletely or incorrectly transcribed words were reviewed and in many cases fixed by Melina Yeh This text has not been fully proofread EarlyPrint Project Evanston IL, Notre Dame IN, St.Louis, Washington MO 2017 Distributed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License A13613.xml The two first comedies of Terence called Andria, and the Eunuch newly Englished by Thomas Newman. Fitted for scholler priuate action in their schooles. Terence. 88 600dpi TIFF G4 page images University of Michigan, Digital Library Production Service Ann Arbor, Michigan 2011 December (TCP phase 2) 99838757 STC (2nd ed.) 23897. 3145 A13613 2240921178

This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. Searching, reading, printing, or downloading EEBO-TCP texts is reserved for the authorized users of these project partner institutions. Permission must be granted for subsequent distribution, in print or electronically, of this text, in whole or in part. Please contact project staff at eebotcp-info@umich.edu for further information or permissions.

 The two first comedies of Terence called Andria, and the Eunuch newly Englished by Thomas Newman. Fitted for scholler priuate action in their schooles. Andria. English Andria. Eunuchus. Terence. Newman, Thomas, fl. 1627, Terence. [16], 110 [i.e. 108], [2] p. Printed by G. M[iller] and are to be sold at the house of M. Fenricus next to the Grayhound Tauerne in the Black-Friers, London : 1627. 1627

Printer's name from STC.

Verse translations, by Thomas Newman, of Terence's Andria and Eunuchus.

The Eunuch begins on verso of F2 [i.e. E2].

Pages 50-51 repeated in number only; 60-61 and 63-64 missing in number only; 56-57 misnumbered 58-59; E2 missigned F2.

Errata on recto of H8, final leaf.

Preliminary pages and 81-82 torn. Beginning-page 1 and 76-101 from Folger Shakespeare Library copy spliced at end.

Reproduction of the original in the British Library.

 A13613 shc The Two First Comedies (Andria, The Eunuch) Terence Melina Yeh 1627 play comedy shc yes A13613 S102998 (STC 23897). 176 3111 3 0 0 1 0 0 12.86 C The rate of 12.86 defects per 10,000 words puts this text in the C category of texts with between 10 and 35 defects per 10,000 words. Incorporated ~ 10,000 textual changes made to the SHC corpus by Hannah Bredar, Kate Needham, and Lydia Zoells between April and July 2015 during visits, separately or together, to the Bodleian, Folger and Houghton Libraries as well as the Rare Book Libraries at Northwestern University and the University of Chicago

THE TWO FIRST COMEDIES OF Terence called Andria , and the Eunuch newly Englished by THOMAS NEWMAN .

FITTED FOR SCHOLLER Priuate action in their Schooles .

Nec verbum verbo curabis reddere fidus Interpres .

Horace .

LONDON , Printed by G. M. and are to bee sold at the house of M. Fenricus next to the Gray-hound Tauerne in the Black-Friers . 1627 .

Author ad Librum OLd wiues and fooles haue faith , the Cricquets song In the warm'd chimney portends death ere long My creede holds no such thing . If Cricquets sing , I rather doubt th e'oreheated brickes may bring Some danger to my house when these I heare , ( If any thing ) I onely fire do feare : But many things ( poore Booke ) I iustly feare , When Critiques descants on thy lines I heare .
Libri ad Authorem responsio . Feare no true Critique ; all that know you , know What loue and honor to such men you owe : And men of that high name , will neuer throw Their censures on an argument so low . These I not feare ; but I do doubt them though , Who would from fooles Censorious Critiques grow .
T. N
TO THE SCHOLLERS of PAVLES Schoole , T. N. wisheth increase in grace and learning .

WHat I at first intended for mine owne imployment to passe away spare time , and afterward purposed for your priuate exercise onely , is now made publique not by my free and voluntarie election ; but by an accident of neare nature to constraint . For hauing hastily finished the translation of these two first comedies of Terence , and ended the foure first acts of the third , I missed my booke one alone day , and then found it againe gelded of the three Latter Acts of the third Comedie . Shortly after I met the Copie thereof in the hands of a Stationer : whence I coniectured that my booke had been copied out by character for sale ; and that done by some lame and ignorant Author , who was not able to be his owne discipherer . I had neglected this thiefe , this plagiarie ; and had suffered him to make vse of my labour , but that one honest and learned gentleman had seene my doings in Andria , and who also knew I was about the residue . You apprehend the iust reason of this publication . As touching my Dedication , I do not so much doubt the imputation of carelesnesse of my credit in seeking Patronage from raw and greene youth , as I feare the challenge of ambitiousnesse in prouiding Patrons , who are to stand vp in all succession of times so long as your Schooles foundation shall continue : and some of you being likely very shortly to become of most full abilitie to defend your vnknowne Client . But till you arriue at such maturitie , giue me leaue to maintaine my selfe , and to prepare you .

I haue alreadie heard somewhat , whereby I further suspect how I may be further quarelled . There will perhaps some be found who on their good faiths will protest that this generall licentiousnesse of turning Latine bookes into English , caries with it much inconuenience . I hope in the generall loosenesse they include not those extant translations of Liuy , Plinie , Plutarch , Suetonius , Tacitus , and the like Authors : if they meane onley such versions as was that of Ouids Art of loue , & the like bookes tending to corruption of youth , I will ioyne with them ; and adde , that such translations are not onely inconuenient but impious also . But in Terence is no such danger . In those few passages where his matter beares any ranke sent or sence , you shall find it hushed by some modest close Eclipsis , or stopping Aposiopesis ; or else couched vnder such darke and misticall termes , as the young scholler cannot apprehend to any danger of defiling : which course I haue also pursued . Besides Terence ( as I heard ) hath formerly beene Englished and published : so that this way I might decline the crime , of first turning him into our tongues , but because I neuer saw that English Author , and therefore know not how he hath carried it , I dare not shelter my selfe vnder such precedent : but I dare venture to share with Theod. Beza in any hazard of this imputation ; and let such Cauillers know , that they by this aspersion shall bee found to wound that learned Frenchman through my sides : for his translation is extant , imprinted in French on one side and in Latine on the other side of euery leafe : and is now in the handes of all young schollers , throughout the whole French Kingdome . From the matter of the translation I come to the manner , and therein do foresee , that it may be obiected , that where Terence many times vseth generall tearmes , I do so rashly perticularlize him , places that in many places I retaine not the purpose & meaning of my Author ; and againe , that in some my English doth not render the Latine truly : by the first they would inforce , that I conceaue not the drift and scope of my Author ; by the later that I vnderstand not his words . I will onely giue you two or three instances , the better to prepare you to apprehend the rest . An. Act. 1. Sc. 1. ver. 3. Curentur haec that these things be well ordered or looked too , I in special tearmes thus restraine , that these things be well cooked ; hauing relation to Isthaec intrò auferte going before , where I vnderstand Isthaec to be meant of prouision for a dissembled wedding supper . Here it may be opposed by some , not out of their owne braines or conceipt , but by arguments filched out of blinde and ignorant Authors , that I am beside the cushion . I am not ignorant of three reasons vsed aboue a hundred yeares agoe against this interpretation . First it is said that Auferre is a word denoting things contemptible , and therefore cannot be meant of Cates or dainties of diet . Secondly , it is affirmed that here was no such prouision made as would require these seruants to carrie in : and this they ground on the words of Dauus Act. 2. Scen. 2. Paululum obsonij . And againe , Act. 2. Scen. 6. Vix drachmis inquit obsonatus est decem . Thirdly , they vrge the old French printed bookes , where by the pictures expressing the arguments of euery Scene certaine logges or billets are figured , and not baskets with prouision from the market . Whence they would inferre that by Isthaec no feasting stuffe is intended but matter of fewell onely . Perceiue you not the blockish conceipt of these loggerhead arguers ? stay a while ; and perhaps I shall affoord you meanes , better to vnderstand the matter . First , therefore I confesse and auoid the argument of contempt : for though Auferre ( according to Donat ) be commonly vsed of things spoken of with disdaine , yet not alwayes so ; for that which Terence meant by Auferte isthaec in the first line , is named Curentur haec in the third : Now Curatio in its proper notion is Medicinae , aut ( quae est eius famula ) coquinae ; and cannot be said of any thing whereof we speake with disdaine or loathing . Dauus words proue nothing : they only extenuate , do not deny the prouision . And for the French pictures . Painters and Poets ( you know ) take much libertie : but for answer I say , that Ascensius a learned Critique , great Grammarian and famous Printer aboue 100. yeares ago in France , and so best able to determine , the doubt , taking vpon him to argue the question , hath left the matter indifferent : yet inclines rather to Edulia then ligna . And me thinks such interpretation may be euinced by euidence of reasons ; for besides that a wedding was strongly to be borne vp ( this could not handsomely be carried without a feast ) it is manifest that Simo came from the market : for so Pamphilus , Act. 1. Scen. 5. Pater praeteriens modò apud forum . Did these servants attend Simo thence with billets or bauins on their shoulders ? this construction were as ridiculous , as improbable that a man of Simo's estate whose sonne was worthy to receiue tenne talents in portion with a wife , Act. 5. Scen. 4. should be vnfurnished of such ordinarie prouision . Or came these seruants emptie home after Simo ? and were appointed to carrie in logges and fagots then lying before their Masters doore ? this coniecture is as absurd ; for how came the wood there ? why did it trouble the stage ? or which way might it concerne the Argument ? Especially why should Sosia formerly made free , now suspect that his Master Simo would Mutare factum ; and recall him to a second bondage , by imposing vpon him such slauish drudgerie as Curare focum ; a scullions no freed mans office ? what art needed hereto ? and Sosia tenders imployment of art in the words immediately following Quid est , quod ars mea tibi efficere possit amplius ? Indeed to steward a feast had in it some art , and seemes to haue beene a part of freed mens imployments , Eunuch , Act. 3. Scen. 5. ver. 60. Thus I hope I haue giuen you some reason of this interpretation . Besides Guido hath long ago so construed it , viz. Anno Dom. 1497. and Ascensius reuiewing Guido & in many places correcting him , hath yet herein against his owne french printed copies allowed him , at lest left it indifferent . I told you before I had heard somewhat : it was of him in whose hands I met with my adulterate copie . This man charged the booke with many foule errors , and that iustly : One thing he taxed which was mine owne ; yet which I durst not maintaine , for feare of giuing suspicion that I was father of the rest . Ander . Act. 2. Scen. 2. The words were Olera & pisciculos portantem in coenam seni , Which I render with hearbes and small sprots for the old mans supper : The challenge was , that the doer tooke Pisciculus to be Latine for the sprot ; beside ( said he ) it would be considered whether this fish were to bee found in the Attick seas . I would not haue vouchsafed answer hereunto , but that many coincident passages in the booke will directly fall vnder the same friuolous cauill . In this respect therefore I thought good to satisfie you herein ; that by the same reason you may be the better armed to defend the residue . I know Pisciculus to be a generall word including euery species of small fishes , and not the sprot onely , as well as Cetus doth comprehend Quamuis belluam marinam , and not the whale alone : yet should I translate Immania cete hideous or dreadfull whales , I thinke the sharpest sighted Grammarian wold wink at it . Whither the sprot hath euer bin eaten in Athens , I neither know nor care : I writ in London , and would speake to be vnderstood : And being to set downe a poore & homly fish supper thought by sprots it might be wel expressed . Master Gascoigne long since translated a Comedie of Ariostoes , which he Englished Supposes : this was presented in Grayes Inne . He therein thus describes an homely and scanty supper — One small shottrell a peniworth of cheese , and ten spurlings . I thinke no wise man would presse that translator to instance in the very fishes in kind by Ariosto named : I could indeed haue wished hee had named some other course fish better knowne to his audience : which hee might haue done if hee had said , One shotten herring , and some halfe score of red sprots : For my part , I do not vnderstand what a Shottrellor a Spurling meaneth . Yea Terence himselfe in the Eunuch Act. 2. sc. 2. brings in Gnato reckoning vp a number of seuerall kinds of Victualers , Cetarij , lanij , coqui , fartores , piscatores &c. It shall be hard for the best Critique to proue all these professions to be had in Athens in Menanders time . This is {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} Comicum as pardonable as vsuall among translators . Furcifer I call pillorie roague : the pillorie beeing with vs a punishment of reproch , nearest to that which they vnderwent , who thence were called Furciferi amongst the ancient Romans . Grammarians diuide themselues into two parties about the word Riscus , Eunuch A. 4.1.6 . I incline to the one side , and imagine it some such thing as is our hampar of Wicker couered with leather . Peniculus is a word of large extent , and manifold signification , I render it a moppe wherewith our seruants vse to clense wet floores ; if another shall call it the Cookes maukin wherewith they cleare ouens , I will not challenge it . Many things were in Athens in Menanders time , which Terence had neuer seene , there were as many in Rome in Terence his time , which no English man knoweth . Shall I be driuen to giue names of things not extant ? If I put in things now in being to supply the place of other things long since lost , to the vnderstanding of my Reader and sufficient expression of my Author , I hope I can be no further required . These and the like are the maine things which I doubt to heare of ; for the rest I leaue to your free and curteous censure ; which yet I desire you to spare , till a few yeares more bee ouer your heads ; and then also to vse this method . Let the originall and the English copie be laid together ; consult for euidence with the old expositors : if they chance to wrangle ( as they do almost euery where ) then if you please hearken to Donat and Ascensius ; if these at any time be silent , or else varie ( this happens seldome ) then make vse of your owne iudgment . After this course taken you may with pleasure stuffe your booke with marginall castigations ; to me it shal be no disparagement , to you it will proue much aduantagious ; there being no booke of this kind , to the studious and often turning ouer whereof I would more willingly excite you . The hope of this your diligence shall incourage me to let slip no vacant time til I haue sent the other foure Comedies among you . Now the Father of lights and giuer of all good gifts enlighten your vnderstandings ; strengthen your memories ; rectifie your wils ; and furnish you with all needfull graces , that you may become a comfort to your parents and gouernors , a credit to your schoole-Masters , and Tutors , an ornament to the Church and state wherein you are to liue . In the meane time . committing you to your studies , I bid you heartily farewell .

Your very heartie well wisher T. N.
The Andrian Woman .
The ARGVMENT according to Muretus collection .

THere were two brethren Citizens of Athens , the one called Chremes the other Phania . Chremes being to trauell into Asia left the charge of his then onely daughter Basibula an infant with his brother Phania . Shortly after his departure out of Attica , Phania also to auoid the rage of warre growing hot in Greece , shipped himselfe thence with his little niece , directing his course towards the place where he supposed Chremes aboad : but suffering shipwracke was cast with the little one , vpon the shoare of the Isle of Andros , where getting entertainement of a poore Islander he shortly after died . His host after his decease , changeth the childs name from Pasibula into Glycerium ; and hauing bred her vp for some yeares in equall education with his owne naturall child called Chrysis , himselfe also dyeth . Chremes in the Interim had returned to Athens , and there had another daughter named Philumena : And all this while supposed his brother and his other daughter to haue long since perished at sea . Chrisis being left fatherlesse and poore leaues Andros , and taking Glycerium with her sailes to Athens ; where they dwell together as reputed sisters . Chrisis turnes harlot : her louers draw along with them to her house one Pamphilus sonne of Simo an antient Athenian Citizen . Pamphilus falling in loue with Glycerium gets her with child , and affianceth himselfe to her . Chremes vpon a publique fame of Pamphilus his vertues treates with Simo for a match betweene their children Pamphilus and Philumena : and a marriage is agreed vpon betweene the two old fathers , Pamphilus being not made acquainted . Chrysis soone after dies , at whose funerals Pamphilus occasionally discouered signes of very ardent affection to Glycerium ; which Chremes hearing of , renounceth him for sonne in law as one apparantly besotted and intangled with extraordinarie loue to a stragling strumpet ( so ignorantly he stiled the issue of his proper loynes ) Pamphilus ( now first hearing of the determined match ) is glad such marriage is disappointed . Simo frets at it . And now is the prefixed day of marriage come , being the day containing the argument of this Comedie . Simo makes shew to all the people of his familie , as if the marriage were on this day to be solemnized , and this he did out of a foxlike subtiltie to feele his sonnes inclination to marriage , and vpon his refusall to haue iust occasion of complaint against him , which hitherto he had not . And if his sonne should declare readinesse to entertaine the match , he then thought it would proue no such difficult matter to overrule Chremes ; and so the businesse to go on as it was first determined . Simo hauing thus proiected matters , meets his sonne ; and wils him to pray to the gods for successe vpon his marriage instantly to bee acomplished . The sonne at his fathers salutation stands thunderstrucken , ignorant what course to take for preuention . Dauus comes to him in this distraction , at what time one Charinus was with him . This Charinus was a yong man inflamed with the loue of Philumena , the intended bride ; and was now in a manner desperate , when he vnderstood that Pamphilus was that day to marrie her : Pamphilus assuers him of his purposed resolution to the contrarie . This was the theame of their discourse when Dauus came vpon them . Dauus ( now ) was Simoes seruant , a fellow of good reach : and he vpon grounds reasonable had conceiued his old masters fetch in this pretended marriage , which ( hauing sent away Charinus ) he opens to Pamphilus : resoluing him that in all likelihood the old man did but cast out a hooke to catch at his inclination to Glycerium : wishing him therefore without all scruple to promise his father all obedience and readinesse in imbracing this faced marriage ; he further intimates , that no hazard was likely hereby to insue : for that Chremes hauing once openly refused him , would not ( at least so suddenly ) intertaine him for a sonne in law . Pamphilus puts the aduice in execution . Simo and Dauus venter either of them vpon the hazard , but Simo his lucke carries it . For Chremes is wonne to a new consent , and now is Pamphilus in danger to bee cast vpon a present marriage , where hee neuer intended . What may Dauus how do ? author of a counsell not so vnlikely as vnluckie ? Chance presents him occasion , and he hath good braine to make vse of the least offered occasion : what is that ? Glycerium is brought to bed : the new borne child is by her maid , but by Dauus direction ) laid at Simo's doore : and this is done iust when Chremes must of necessitie see it : Dauus further so carries the matter , that Chremes vnderstands who is father , who is mother to the child . These things iustly mone Chremes to a second renunciation : Hence great stirie ariseth : Crito a man of Andros ( arriued at Athens vpon newes of Crysis her death , being next heire to her estate ) ends all ; by discovering Glyceriums freedome & parentage . Pamphilus marries Glycerium now againe knowne by her first name Pasibula ; Charinus marries the other sister Philumena .

The Actors and their Characters .

SImo An old man carefull of his sonne , whom hee loued at first for his reported vertues : and after he once doubted his carriage , shewed his greater loue in his care of him . In the first Seene he carries himselfe milde in discourse and behauiour : and still after increaseth in angry moode , till at length he growes to rage and passion .

Pamphilus . Sonne to Simo , a well qualified young man and faithfull louer .

Dauus Seruant of the family , subtile wife , confident .

Dromo . Another seruant , onely vsed for Dauus punishment .

Sosia . Snno's freed-man , a protaticke person brought in onely , to whom the ground of the argument might be opened .

Chremes . an old man of a quiet and tranquill spirit .

Glycerium . Daughter of Chremes not presented on the Stage ; neither speakes but within doores in labor of child-birth :

Lesbia . Her midwife .

Misis . Her maid-seruant .

Charinus . A young man , simple and ignorant .

Byrrhia . His man for wit aboue his master . Discreete .

Crito . A stranger of Andros , poore yet honest , wise and of a good spirit and stomach .

The Prologue . OVr Poet first setting his mind to write , Deemd this the sole maine charge vpon him laid , To please the people with the playes he made : But now he finds that he misreckond quite . For , that he cannot ( Prologue wise ) now lay The argument of this his play aright , Is causd by an old rank'rous Poets spite ; Who drutes him to cleare faultes , leaue the meant way . Now pray obserue their cauellings : those playes Andria and Perinthia , which Menander wrote , ( Know one , know both ) not much vnlike in plot , Are different yet both in their stile and phrase . He not denies that from Perinthia Those things which seemd conuenient in the same , He ( as his owne ) hath drawne into the frame , And course of this presented Andria . This is the thing they challenge : and they braule That in such sort a cleanely Comedie Should not be hotch-potchd . These men verily While much they seeme , shew they know nought at all : Who him accusing draw his presidents Nauius , Plautus , Ennius , in like crime , To whose mistakings he would rather climbe , Then follow these mens obscure diligence . I further wish 'hem hence foor keepe 'hem still ; And cease with euill language him to sting ; Lest their ill doing in their eares do ring . Spectators kind , of you we craue good will ; In silence shewne and kinde attention ; That without preiudice our play y 'ould heare : Thence you may fully know , if it rest cleare , That all our future purposd action Of new made playes be to be banisht quite ; Without aduentring your hereafter sight :
THE ANDRIAN WOMAN .
Act. 1.
Scen. 1. Enter Simo and Sosia with two or three seruanes more bearing prouision from the Market . Simo .

You sirs haue those things in : away I say .

Exeunt the seruants . Sosia

draw neere ; I am to speak with you .

Sos. I thinke th' errand giu'n ; your meaning is I looke to those things carefull cookery . Sim.

No : t is another matter .

Sos. Pray say on What t is , my art may further doe for you . Sim. Here 's neede of no such art , in what I purpose ; But of those parts which I haue euer noted To dwell in thee ; trust , and true secrecie . Sos.

I waite your pleasure .

Sim. Since I bought thee first Being then a yongling , in what gentle sort , In what due course , thou ledst thy seruice with me , Thy selfe well know'st : and for I found thee carefull In thy imployments , the best good I had To answer it , I gaue thee ; libertie . Sos.

I ●●●re it sir in minde .

Sim.

And I repent nor .

Sos. 〈◊〉 is my harts ioy Master , if I did Or 〈◊〉 can doe , ought to your satisfaction ; And further owe you thankes that you acknowledge I well accepted : yet it troubles me , For this remembrancing your benefit , Seemes to vpbraid me , as forgetting it . Pray in one word acquaint me with your pleasure . Sim. I will ; but first I tell thee of this thing , This which thou thinkst is no meant marriage . Sos.

Why make you as it were then ?

Sim. Thou shalt heare From the beginning all : and by that meanes Shalt better know my Sonnes forepassed life , My present purpose , and thy future charge . My Sonne hauing past his childhood Sosia Hath now more scope allowed him ; before How could one know or fist his disposition , While tender age , feare , tutors awed him ? Sos.

Sir , you say right .

Sim. What almost all youth doe , To set their minde on one some chosen course ; That to breede Herse , this Hounds , and both to hunt , A third to study of Phylosophie : He none of these followed professedly , Aboue the rest : but yet all moderately . I ioyd at it . Sos. Sir , not without good cause : " For to oredoe no one thing , in my sence " To mans life is of chiefest consequence . Sim. Such his behauiour ; all those gently To beare and forbeare , that he kept withall ; Apply himselfe to please and humor all ; Crosse none , nor proudly seeke to ouertop His young companions : so that easily He got him friends and praise ; yet without enuie . Sos. He bare him wisely : for in this times state Sweet yeelding procures friends ; blunt truth gets hate . Sim. Meane while a certaine woman three yeeres since Drawne by her wants and kindreds negligence , From Anaros Isle came to our neighborhood ; Of passing beautie , flouring womanhood . Sos.

I feare this Andrian woman bodes no good .

Sim. She at the first a sparing chaste life led ; At Rocke and Loome , hard labord to get bread : But when a first , a second , a third came ; Tendring their loues , gifts promis'd with the same , ( As all our natures are prone commonly From labour vnto wanton libertie ) She stoop'd to lure , began the gainfull trade . By those that then chiefe loue vnto her made , My Sonne was drawne along occasionally To banquet with 'hem ; keepe 'hem company . I to my selfe — Sure the young frie is tane : H 'as catcht the poisoned bait ; with it , his bane . These louers seruants passing to and fro I eu'rie morning watch ; and calling to One that I spied , thus question ; Prethee lad , Who yesterday yond Chrysis company had ? So was the Andrian call'd . Sos.

Sir . I conceaue you .

Sim. The answer was , Phoedrus , or Nicerate , Or Clinias ( for at that time those three Her ioyntly lou'd . ) I reply presently , And what did Pamphilus ? what ? ( answers he . ) He stak'd his share , and supp'd : this gladded me . At other times I cast more newes to learne ; Still nothing found that did my Sonne concerne . I thought him now proofe-temper'd gainst excesse , Great patterne of a setled staiednesse . For he that deales with natures of this kinde , Yet thereby growes not slagg'ring in his minde ; To such a mans owne hands thou maist be bold To leaue the free reignes of his life in hold . As this gaue me most satisfying pleasure , So all tongues talk'd my good , proclaim'd my treasure , In hauing such a qualified Sonne . What should I make further relation ? Chremes our neighbour drawne by this same bruit , Freely comes to me ; and makes earnest suit To place his daughter , yea his onely one With a large dowre as wife vnto my Sonne : I agreed the marriage , on his motion ; And this the day , it is appointed on . Sos. What barie now stoppeth ? why in very deede According to the shew , it not proceede ? Sim. I le tell thee : few dayes after this befell , Our neighbour Chrysis died . Sos. That 's chanced well . You haue reuiu'd me ; I much doubted her . Sim. With Chrysis louers still my Sonne comes there Alike her funerall lookes to ; alike cheere Sometimes of sadnesse shewes , sometimes alike Weepes with 'hem : I his carriage well did like Thus argued I ; Her death how tenderly For very small acquaintance doth he take ? What , if himselfe had lou'd her ? what for me , What will he doe for me , his Fathers sake ? All this I thought in my simplcitie , Meerely the functions of humilitie , And of kinde heart . Why lengthen I my tale ? My selfe for his sake tend the funerall . Dreaming as yet no euill . Sos.

Ha! what meanes this ?

Sim. I le cause thee know . The dead corps is brought out ; Along we goe ; now there amidst the throng Of wonten , I a maiden very young Perchance espied ; of person — Sos.

Perhaps handsome .

Sim. I , and of countenance Sosia so delightsome , So modest , faire , that nothing might her staine : Who for she seem'd to me , in all the traine Most to lament ; and was aboue the rest Of sweet and comely personage and face . I prest neere to the Maids , askt what she was : They told me Chrysis sister . Instantly It strooke me cold at heart . Oh God! thought I , Hence grew his teares : his tendernesse she breeds . Sos.

How I doe feare whither your tale proceeds .

Sim. The Funerall goes on : we attend the same To th' Sepulchre she 's come : into the flame She 's put : all weepe . The maid I named late Approacht the fire , as carelesse , desperate ; To her euident danger : here my frighted Sonne Well shewed his long concealed affection So close dissembled : to her hies he fast , And both his armes folding about her wast , My deere Glycerium saies he , how doost ? say , What cause hast thou to make thy selfe away ? Then she ( that all their indeard loue might spie ) Cast her selfe on him , weeping tenderly . Sos.

How ? what doe you say ?

Sim. Home I get mee streight , Inrag'd and fretting ; yet no cause of weight Appeard to me to chide him : he might plead , What foule fact haue I done ? what merited ? Or wherein faulted , Father ? one that sought To burne her selfe , I hindred ( as I ought ) And sau'd her life . It were a faire reply . Sos. You weigh things well ; for if deseruedly He may be chidden which help'd life to saue , Who hurts or spoiles one , what should that man haue ? Sim. Next day comes Chremes to me , vrging thus , Oh case to be lamented ! Pamphilus ( I finde cleare ) holds yond stranger harlotrie In place of a iust wife : this earnestly I doe denie , he stifly holds . In fine , I so part with him , as one vtterly Denies to giue his Daughter to my Sonne . Sos.

Chid you not Pamphilus yet ?

Sim. Nor yet I saw A grounded cause to build a chiding on . Sos.

Why I pray ?

Sim. Thus my Sonne might vrge his law : Your selfe sir set a limitation To this my course : the time is comming on , I must my selfe to anothers will apply : Let me at h interim mine owne satisfie . Sos.

For what cause then of blaming will you 〈◊〉

Sim. If for loose loue he shall dome to marrie That is the first occasion that I seeke Against him ; and the present way I make By this selfe marriage , if he shew mislike Is hereby true pretence of blame to take . Besides , if wicked Dauus haue a foot Any contriuement , that he now consume His stocke of knauerie whil'st it cannot hurt Who ( I imagine ) tooth and naile will practise , And that with purpose rather to crosse me Then please my Sonne . Sos.

Why should you so conceaue ?

Sim. Mak'st thou a question ? euill mindes , ill manners . Whom if in any thing I shall discouer — But what neede talke ? if happily it fall ( As I doe wish ) my Sonne be nothing backward , It onely rests , that I perswade with Chremes : Which I hope may be wrought . Now , be 't your charge Well to beare vp this seeming marriage ; Fright Dauus ; obserue my Sonnes carriage ; And note their consultations . Sos.

T is enough ; I le see to 't : shall we in .

Sim. Goe before , I follow . Exit Sosia . There is no question , my Sonne would decline This marriage ; that I markt in Dauus seare , When he had heard tht wedding did goe forward . But he himselfe comes forth .
Scen. 2. Enter Dauus . Dau. I Marld if this would end so , and still doubted Whereto my Masters caline remisnesse tended : Who when he saw his Sonne could haue no wife , Neuer made word to vs on 't ; nor gaue signe Of being troubled at it . Sim. Now he will Talke to you on 't ; and as I doe suppose To your no little cost . Dau. This was his cunning , To lead vs on in faire fooles paradise ; And in our secure dreaming take vs napping , Hauing no time to cast preuention . A fox ifaith . Sim.

What is t the knaue talkes on ?

Dau.

My Master , and vnheeded !

Sim.

Dauus —

Dau.

Ha , what is the affaire ?

Sim.

Come you hither to me .

Dau.

What now trow is in working ?

Sim.

What faist thou ?

Dau.

What sir the businesse ?

Sim. Dost thou demand that ? Folke talke my Sonne 's in loue . Dau. That birladie Concernes the world to thinke on . Sim. Dost marke me In what I say or not ? Dau.

Oh , yes sir well .

Sim. But now of this for me to make inquirie Were no kinde Fathers part . What hitherto H 'as done , I passe not : while the time permitted I gaue him way to take his course and pleasures : His yeares now call for a new life , new manners . Henceforward Dauus I require , or rather ( If the word may befit me ) I request thee , Retriue my Sonne from this loose libertie . Dau.

What may this meane ?

Sim. All these loose libertines That wantonly doe loue , cannot indure To heare of wiuing . Dau.

So indeede they say

Sim. Beside , if such one chance to light vpon Some patron of his inclination , His raw greene sickly minde he commonly Wonts to the worser part still to apply . Dau.

Troth sir I vnderstand you not .

Sim.

How , not ?

Dau. No verily : I am your plaine man Dauus ; No riddle-teller , cunning Oedipus . Sim.

thou ld'st then in plaine tearmes haue me speake my minde ?

Dau.

Yes , pray at any hand sir .

Sim. If I finde That thou to day vse any cunning crotchet , Whereby to hinder this intended wedding ; Or faine wouldst shew thy wits fine nimblenesse : When I haue first well whipt thee , in the Mill I le thrust thee , to thy very dying day : With this prouiso and condition , If euer I thence free thee , I le grinde for thee . What , vnderstand'st me yet , or not yet neither ? Dau. Yes clearely now ; y' haue vs'd no round-abouts , But come to th' matter roundly . Sim. In ought else Saue this , I better could indure a slighting . Dau.

Pray sir good words yet .

Sim. Mak'st thou a iest on 't ? I know thee to a haire : but I doe tell thee , Least thou shouldst rashly venture . Doe not say But th' hast had faire warning giu'n thee : looke to 't . Exit Simo .
Scen. 3. Dau. VPon my faith now Dauus here 's no leasure Left thee , to rest or dreame vpon the matter ; For ought I gather of the old mans purpose Touching this wedding . which not wisely holpen Me or young Master vndoes vtterly . Not can I iudge my best course , him to succour , Or leane to the old mans counsell : forsake him ? I doubt his life ; assist him ? th' others threats ; Whom to o're reach it 's hard . First h 'as discouerd All of their loue : then keepes hard watch o're me , Least I should lead some trumping card in th' way : Which if he finde , I 'm lost : or else at pleasure Hee le take occasion , be it right , be it wrong ; And to the Mill I shall be tumbled headlong . To all these hazards comes another mischiefe : This Andrian woman , be she his wife , or lemman , Is great with childe by him . Now , t is worth nothing To heare their bold aduenture : none can iudge it Fond louers fancie , but meere frenzie rather : For whether boy or girle she shall bring forth , They haue resolu'd to keepe and nourish it . Besides they coyne a prettie cunning fable , Among themselues , that shee 's free Atticke borne . There was long since ( say they ) an ancient Merchant Shipwrackt on Andros Iland ; who there died ; And that with him then saued , Chrysis Father Tooke vp a little girle . Conceited fiction ! To me it seemes vnlikely : yet they sooth Themselues i th' tale . But see Mysis comming Enter Mysis . From out Glyceriums house . I le to the Market To seeke out Pamphilus : for feare his Father Vnwates doe presse him with this businesse . Exit Dauus .
Scen. 4. Mys. GOod God Archillis , I doe heare you woman : You would haue Lesbia fetcht ; vpon my word She is a drunken gossip , and vnheedie : And one scarce fit to whom you may commit A woman in first childbirth : Yet He fetch her . Note you the old ones importunitie ! None but her pot companion will serue turne . But I pray God grant this a good deliuery : Enter Pamphilus . And that the Midwife rather may elsewhere Neglect , then here . But what may be the cause I Pamph ' us see so much disquieted ? I feare what it may be . I le stay a while To know the reason of his troubled gesture .
Scen. 5. Pam. IS this kinde dealing ? courteous attempt ? Is this a Fathers carriage ? Mys.

What is that ?

Pam. Oh gods and men your faith ! what can be said , Neglect , disgrace , or scorne , if this be none ? Say he had ment to marry me to day ; Ought I not haue foreknowne it ? ought I not Haue bin made priuie to it ? Mys. Out alas , Wretch that I am , what doe I heare him talke of ? Pam. What should I thinke of Chremes ? who denied To trust me as a husband with his daughter ? Changeth he minde , because I rest vnchang'd ? That he should still thus obstinately indeauor Me most accursed to diuorce and seuer From my Glycertam ? which , if it fall out , I am vndone for euer . Amongst men Was euer yet found out one more disgracefull ? More euery way vnhappy then my selfe ? Men , gods assist me ! is there left no way For me to shunne Chremes affinitie ? How many wayes haue I bin scorn'd ? refus'd ? ( All done , all ended ) the other day cast of Ain now againe required : and why so ? Vnlesse ( I guesse ) h' has some deformed piece , Which when he cannot fasten vpon any , He seekes to 〈◊〉 on me ? Mys. This talke of his Kils me poore wretch with seare . Pam. For what should I Now of my Father speake ? Oh God! that he So weightie a thing should doe so carelesly . Passing now by me in the Market-place , Goe , get you home , saies he ; and fit your selfe : This day you must be married Pamphilus . To me his words seem'd of such sound and sence , As he had said , get home and hang thy selfe . I stood confounded at it . Doe you thinke I had a word to vtter ? any excuse ? Though foolish , false , vnsitting ? I stood dumbe . Yet had I known 't afore , what could I doe ? If any now should aske me , I would surely Vse other course , then ( as I did ) keepe silence . But now what first thing shall I enter on ? So many cares , seuerall distraction , Puzzles my minde : loue , pittie of her , feare About this marriage so loath'd , so neare : Then the respect I owe my Father , who So mildely hath me suffied hitherto Without restraint to runne my owne free race , In euery course I listed : with what face May I now crosse his pleasure ? wretched me ! I know not what to rest on . Mys. I poore woman Doubt th' end of this irresolution . But now t is very needfull that I draw him To speake with her ; or else of her Finde some discourse to him . Whil'st yet his minde Hangs wauering , euery little moment turnes it . Pam. Who is t talkes hereabout ? Mysis well met . Mys.

Pamphilus and you .

Pam.

How does my dearest ?

Mys. How does she ? marie sir in pangs of trauaile : And many troublous thoughts come in her minde About this day , once purpos'd for your wedding . She further doubts , least you may minde to leaue her . Pam. May I be thought to minde a thing so foule ? And through my fault suffer mine owne deare soule To be abus'd ? trusting her heart , her life To me ? whom I haue made my dearest wife ? May I permit her chaste well trained minde Inforced by foule want to change it kinde ? No , I will neuer doe it . Mys. If it lay In you , I neede not feare : but how you may Be forced by your Father , is the doubt . Pam. What Mysis dost thou thinke me such a loue ? So ingratefull further ? so inhumane , bestiall ? That nor acquaintance , loue , or shame , at all May moue or prompt me to keepe plighted faith ? Mys. One thing I know , that she deserued hath That you should minde her . Pam. Should minde her Mysis ? Euen now the very latest words of Chrysis Touching Glycerium , rest imprinted here ; Here at my heart . Her last houre drawing neere , She cald for me : I came to her : all you Voided the roome : being alone we two She thus began . Kinde Pamphilus you see Glyceriums youth and beautie ; verily Two weake vnsafe guards ( as your selfe perceiue ) To keepe her chaste , guard the small stocke I leaue . Wherefore by this right hand I craue of thee , By thy good nature , thy fidelitie : I adiure thee by her here vnfriendednesse Thou wouldst not leaue her : doe not part from her . If as a brother I thee still respected , If she of all men hath thee best affected , As she in all things sought thy full contentment In true obseruance , due obedience . I leaue thee as a friend , a guardian , Father , A husband to her . All the little wealth I leaue behinde , I trust to thy disposing . Then her hand taking , in my hand she clasp'd it ; And forthwith died . I then there recein'd her ; Receiu'd will keepe . Mys.

Indeede sir I hope so .

Pam.

But why dost now come from her ?

Mys. I am sent To fetch the Midwife . Pam. Oh , I prethee hasten . And heare you ? see you mention not a word About the marriage : least it may perhaps Adde to her weaknesse . Mys.

I doe minde it sir .

Exeunt Pamphilus and Mysis seuerall waies .
Act. 2.
Scen. 1. Enter Charinus and Byrrhia his man . Cha WHat saist thou Byrrhia ? must she then to day Be married vnto Pamphilus ? Byrr.

Yes sir .

Chae.

How dost thou know it ?

Byr. But ene very now Dauus so told me in the Market-place . Cha. Accursed , wretched me ! how hitherto My thoughts haue waited vpon hope and feare ? But hope now being fled , my fainting spirits Wasted with care , yeeld to confusion . Byr. Pray , for Gods loue Charinus , since that things Cannot be as you would , seeke to desire What you may compasse . Cha. There is nothing else In all the world I wish , but Philumen . Byr. But how much better were it , to endeauour To vnlodge this idle loue out of your heart , Then thus to talke of that which addes more fewell To this your bootlesse vaine affection ? Enter Pamphilus walking in a dumpe . Cha. All men in health can easily prescribe To the sicke patient good directions . If thou wert in my case thy minde would alter . Byr.

Well sir then doe your pleasure .

Cha. But lo yonder Where Pamphilus is . I doe meane to venture All trials yet , ere I doe fully perish . Byr.

What meanes he now to doe ?

Cha. I will request , Beseech him , open to him all my loue . I hope I may obtaine of him at least , For some few dayes to put the wedding of . I trust in th' Interim somewhat may be done . Byr.

That somewhat is iust nothing .

Cha. Byrrhia , What think'st thou of it ? shall I goe to him ? Byr. What else ? if he will yeeld to nothing , yet Let him suspect , you haue good minde to horne him If he shall marrie her . Cha. Away lience varlet , With this thy lewd suspition . Pam. Charinus , God saue you . Cha. And you also Pamphilus . I was a comming to you , with desire To craue hope , helpe , health , counsell at your hands . Pam. Troth I haue neither place for counsell left , Nor meanes to helpe . but what 's the matter man ? Cha.

Are you to day to marrie ?

Pam.

So they say .

Cha. If you doe Pamphilus , I can assure you , This is the last day you shall euer see me . Pam.

How so ?

Cha. I shame to tell it , Birrhia prithee Declare the matter to him . Byr.

Yes , I will .

Pam.

What is it ?

Byr.

Sir , he loues your wife that shall be .

Pam. Troth he and I are of two seuerall mindes : I can assure thee . Prithee hearken hither Charinus ; ha'st not had to doe with her More , then thy man here talkes of . Cha. Pamphilus , No o' my troth . I am . Oh , how I wish thou haddest . Cha. Now I intreat thee by our friendship , loue ; First that you would not marrie her at all . Pam.

I le ( what I can ) auoid it .

Cha. If 't full so , You cannot shun it , or doe else affect it — Pam.

Affect it ?

Cha. Yet deferre it of awhile , That I may void hence somewhere , and not see 't . Pam. Charinus , now heare me . I doe not think 't At any time a part of honestie , When one deserues nought , to expect for thankes . I de rather shun this match then thou obtain 't . Cha.

You put new life into me .

Pam. If thou canst now , Or this this thy man here ; worke , inuent , fashion , Take all the course you can to make her thine : I will finde meanes , that mine she shall not be . Enter Dauus . Cha.

I haue enough .

Pam. And in good time I see Danus , whose counsell I rely vpon . Cha. But thou dull head canst nothing cast about Worth knowing . Can you leaue vs ? Byr.

Yes , and gladly .

Exit Byrrhia .
Scen. 2. Dau. GOod God! what good newes bring I ? But where●row may I finde Pamphilus out ? To end his feares , and fill his heart with comfort . Cha. He is iocund , at what I know not . Pam. Tut , man , t is , nothing . The mischiefe now afoot , he yet not heares of . Dau.

Who if he haue heard of this prepared wedding —

Cha.

Doe you not heare him ?

Dau. I guesse verily Hunts all the towne ore for me , like a madman . But where shall I looke for him ? to what place First bend my course ? Cha

Why speake you not vnto him ?

Dau.

I le get me hence , and seeke him .

Pam. Dauus , stay : Come hither . Dau. Who is t cals ? Oh Pamphilus , I sought you : you here too Charinus ? braue . Both in the nicke . Y' are the men , I lookt for . Pam.

Oh Dauus I me vndone .

Dau.

Tut , list to me .

Cha.

I am for euer lost .

Dau.

Your feare I know .

Pam.

My life now lies at stake .

Dau.

Yours I know too .

Pam.

I must be married .

Dau.

That I also know .

Pam.

I , but this very day .

Dau. You weary me With newes , that I am perfect in already . You feare to haue her ; you to misse her . Cha.

Th' hast it .

Pam.

I that 's the point .

Dau. Well , and I say the point Has then no danger in it . Obserue me . Pam.

For Gods sake rid me quickly of this feare .

Dau. Lo , I fice thee . Chremis now 's not minded To trouble you with a wife . Pam.

How doest know it ?

Dau. Your Father tooke me by the sleeue e'en now , And told me this day he would marrie you : Adding much more , which now 's no time to talke on . Presently hastning to acquaint you with it , I ranne to the Market-place : there missing you I got to a high rais'd ground , and round about Look'd to espie you ; could not . Then by chance I saw Charinus seruant , Birrhia : Of him I ask'd , he said he had not seene you : It vex'd me : still I cast what I should doe . Returning thence , a certaine iealousie By circumstances bred came in my minde . Vmph ! here 's small rost ; the old man sad , a wedding ? It scarce hangs well together . Pam.

Whereto this ?

Dau. I bie me streight to hremes ; thither come , I note a silent stilnesse at the doore . Now , this gaue me good heart . Cha.

Well said , goe on .

Dau. Somewhile I there continue : all that while I saw no creature passing out or in ; No matron there ; no decking of the house ; No stirre ; I neerer came , and peeped in . Pam.

I know they are good coniectures .

Dau. Doe such things Thinke you agree vnto a nuptiall day ? Pam.

In troth I thinke not Dauus .

Dau. Doe you say , thinke ? You construe things not well : the case is plaine . Besides , thence going I met Chremes seruant With hearbs and small sprots for the old mans supper . Cha.

Dauus , through thee I am now rid of care .

Dau.

Nay of my faith not so .

Cha. Why man prethee ? For thou conclud'st , he will not giue her him . Dau. Conceited pate ! as if it therefore followed , If he not haue her , you must marrie her . Vnlesse you lookt too t , make your suit , and meanes T' her fathers friends , you may hap hop wiuelesse . Cha. Thou promptst me well ; I le goe about it streight . Though ought this hope haue faild me : fare ye well . Exit Charinus .
Scen. 3. Pam. WHat meanes my father then ? Why doubles he ? Dau. I le tell you . If he now should chafe at you , Cause Chremes will not let you haue his daughter , Himselfe may see he plainly iniur'd you : If he should presse you on , before he knew How your minde stood inclined to the match . But if you shall stiffely denie to wed her ; Then he will iustly lay the blame on you : Then shall we haue a coyle on 't . Pam. What would'st haue me To vndergoe this marriage ? Dau. Pamphilus , He is your Father : and it will be hard T' oppose him : this your sweet heart too ( you know ) Is friendlesse here . Hee le finde cause easily To thrust her out o' th' towne . Pam.

Out o' th towne man ?

Dau.

And speedily too .

Pam. Counsell me then Dauus . What I should doe . Dau.

Tell him you 'l marrie her .

Pam.

How ?

Dau.

What 's the matter ?

Pam.

Should I tell him so ?

Dau.

Why not ?

Pam.

I nere will deo 't .

Dau.

Denie me not .

Pam.

Perswade me not .

Dau.

Note , what hence will follow .

Pam.

To be shut out from her , mew'd vp to this .

Dau. No , no such thing . I guesse your father thus Will say to you : my purpose Pamphilus Is that this day you wed : then answer you , Sir , I am ready : pray you tell me now For what cause can he chide you ? by this meanes His setled plots you shall disorder cleane : Your selfe yet runne no hazard ; for the thought Is groundlesse , vaine , that Chremes may be wrought To giue his daughter : nor doe you let fall Your course , least he his purpose should recall . Tell you your Father that you like the Bride : That , when he would , he haue no cause to chide . And for the dangerous passage that you feare ; I le steare your course , and waft you ouer cleare . No man will giue his daughter as a wife To one discouerd of your wanton life . Hee le with some poore man rather seeke to place her , Then suffer you to iniure or disgrace her . But if your father see you quiet take This his command , you shall him retchlesse make . At leasure hee le seeke out some other wife , Meane time your fathers death may end the strife Or some like good chance happen . Pam.

Thinkst thou so ?

Dau.

There is no doubt i th' world on 't .

Pam.

Take you heede to what you lead me .

Dau.

Will you sir be quiet ?

Pam. I le tell my father as thou bidst me : but There must be care had , he by no meanes know she 's with childe by me ; for I haue promis'd To giue it breeding . Dau.

Oh bold enterprise !

Pam. She begg'd this promise of me , as assurance That I would not forsake her . Enter Simo . Dau. I le looke too t . Your Father 's here : let him not note you sad .
Scen. 4. Sim.

I Come to obserue their carriage , note their plots .

Dau. He thinkes now surely , you le refuse to marrie : And comes from some lone place premeditate , Thinking to puzzle you with a set speech : Therefore collect your selfe . Pam.

Well , as I can .

Dau. In this thing Pamphilus you shall take my word , You shall not now change two crosse sillables , If you but say , you readie are to marrie .
Scen. 5. Enter Byrrhia listening the incounter betweene Simo and his Sonne . Byr. MY Master will'd me ( all things else set of ) Pamphilus watch : & learn what course he takes About the Bride . This caus'd me dogge him hither : And loe , where he is with Dauus . To my taske . Sim.

I see 'hem both together .

Dau.

Now sir looke too t .

Sim.

Pamphilus .

Dau.

Looke you backe as on the sodaine .

Pam.

Oh , you my father ?

Dau.

I , that 's well carried .

Sim. As I late told thee , t is my purpose Sonne That thou this day be married . Dau. Now I feare His answer on our side . Pam. Sir , or in this Or in what else I wait vpon your pleasure . Byr.

Ha!

Dau.

Mute .

Byr.

What said he ?

Sim. Thou dost now my Sonne As well becomes thee , when so graciously Thou yeeldst to what I craue . Dau.

Was I not right ?

Byr.

My Master ( as I heare ) hath lost his wife .

Sim. Get you now in that when the time requires , We be not driu'n to stay for you . Pam.

Yes sir .

Exit Pamphilus . Byr. That in nothing one man may trust another ! It is an old said saying , and as common , All to themselues wish best . My selfe haue seene The maiden , and remember her a faire one . Which makes me better beare with Pamphilus , If he himselfe had rather nightly bed her , Then let my Master . I le beare backe this newes : That he may pay me well , for my ill tidings . Exit Byrrhia .
Scen. 6. Dau. MY Master thinkes now I haue some deuice A foot : and that , for that end I stay here . Sim.

What is t , thou talkest Dauus ?

Dau.

Eene iust sir .

Sim.

What , nothing ? ha ?

Dau.

Indeede sir nothing , I .

Sim.

I sure did looke to heare some newes from thee .

Dau. I know t is chanced quite besides his aime : That 's it which nettles him . Sim. I st possible I get thee tell me a truth ? Dau.

Most readily .

Sim. Doos this same wedding grieue him any thing , By reason of the acquaintance that he holds With yonder stranger ? Dau. Truely I thinke not . Or if it doe , the matter of his trouble Will be at most two or three daies disquiet : ( Conceiue you sir ? ) then it will clearely vanish . For with himselfe h 'as tane a due account , And set all cleare that way . Sim.

I doe commend him .

Dau. Whilst he had leaue , & his green youth did suffer 't He wencht a little ; but yet priuately : He euer had a care to keepe his name Vntoucht ; as did become a wise yong man . Now mariage fits , he frames his minde that way . Sim.

And yet me thought he appeared somewhat sad .

Dau. Nothing about this businesse ; but there 's cause That makes him somewhat angry with you . Sim.

What ?

Dau.

A trifle .

Sim.

What is t ?

Dau.

Nothing .

Sim.

Tell me what ?

Dau.

He saies y' are ouerniggardish in Cost .

Sim.

Who , I ?

Dau. That you haue scarce disbusd ten groats In your prouision for his wedding supper : What ( saies he ) is this like a Sonnes nuptials Whom chiefely of my fellow batchelors May I inuite ( quoth he ) to such a banquet ? And to speake that which may be said herein ; Intruth you are too too sparing , I lik 't not . Sim.

Hold your tongue .

Dau.

I haue gald him .

Sim. I will see That all shall be well carried . What meanes this ? What is t this old fox-hunt doth hammer on ? If there be any knauerie , his pare forg'd it . Exeunt Simo and Dauus .
Act. 3.
Scen. 1. Enter Lesbia , the Midwife and Mysis Glyceriums maide at one doore , Simo and Dauus at another . Mys. I , Indeede Lesbia you haue said aright : A woman hardly findes a faithfull louer . Sim.

Belongs this maide to th' Andrian here ?

Dau.

Yes sir .

Mys.

But this kinde Pamphilus

Sim.

What is t she saies ?

Mys.

Hath giuen her full assurance —

Sim.

Out alas !

Dau.

Would either he were dease now or she dumbe .

Mys.

That sonne or daughter , he will foster it .

Sim. Oh Iupiter ! what newes is this I heare ? All is lost vtterly ; if she speake truth . Lesb.

You doe describe a yong man honest natur'd .

Mys. Oh , the best natur'd gentleman — but pray , Follow me in , for feare she stay for you . Les.

Yes I follow .

Dau.

What helpe for this now , trow ?

Exet Lesbya and Mysis . Sim. What , is he mad ? a loose land loping strumpet ? Oh! I haue it : old dulhead ( as I was ) I fearce at length could hit on 't . Dau.

What has he hit on , saies he ?

Sim. This first knauish practise Of my man here is now thus put vpon me : She is to be in child birth , to flight Chremes . Glycerium within doores . Iuno , Lucina helpe ; saue mee , I pray thee . Sim. Horda such speede ? ha , ha , ridiculous As soone as are she heard me at the doore , The throwes come on : scarce fitly a' my word , You ranke and place your times scarce fitly Dauus . Dau.

I sir ?

Sim.

Or haue your Actors mist their Cues ?

Dau.

I know not what you meane , sir .

Sim. If this fellow Had set vpon me , being vnprouided In a true marriage oh , what pageants Would he haue plaid me ? Let him now make sure His owne aduenture ; ●m●ith port secure .
Scen. 2. Enter Lesbia speaking to the Nurse within doores . Lesb. AS yet Archillis I doe note in her All vsuall matters , and good signes of health First see her cleansd , and then deliuer her That drinke , in measure as I gaue in charge : I le be here straight againe : as God shall helpe me . She hath brought Pamphilus a goodly boy . If it please God , may it liue to be a man : Seeing the father is of disposition So honest ; and makes conscience to wrong This good young woman . Exit Lesbia . Sim. Who did euer know thee That would not sweare , this thy contriuing now ? Dau.

Pray , what ?

Sim. She cannot in the house giue order , For what is needfull to the childebed woman : But comming forth a doores , proclaimes i th' street Her minde to them within : what ? what sir Dauus Slight you me so ? or deem'st me now at length Such a fine easie propertie , thou maist So plainly passe thy iugling tricks vpon me ? At least yet , it was circumspectly carried ; And shewd your awe , if 't were discouer'd . Dau.

Troth his owne cunning cheats him now ; not I .

Sim. Did I not forewarne thee ? threaten further If thou should'st dare attempt this ? hast thou yet Stood in feare of 't ? hath it in ought preuail'd ? Think'st thou I doe beleeue this woman here Hath had a childe now by my Pamphilus ? Dau.

I now finde his mistaking , know my course .

Sim.

Why speak'st thou not ?

Dau. What talke you of your thinking ? As if y 'had had no notice of the matter ? Sim.

I notice ?

Dau. Why good sir , tell me I pray Found you of your selfe that this was counter ? Sim.

I 'm flouted .

Dau. Come , come , it has bin told you : How else a Gods name could you dreame of it ? Sim.

How ? cause I well did know thy qualities .

Dau.

You thinke it then a thing of my direction .

Sim.

I , and I know t is .

Dau. Truely sir I see You throughly doe not know me . Sim.

Not I , thee ?

Dau. But when I seeke to tell you any thing , You streight suppose , I put some tricke vpon you . Sim.

T is false .

Dau.

So that I dare scarce speake to you .

Sim.

This one thing I am sure on ; heer 's no childe born .

Dau. Are you so sure ? yet sir notwithstanding They streight will lay a childe before your doore . I tell you on 't aforehand , for your knowledge : Least you should say hereafter , Dauus plots And cunning manag'd all . I very faine Would worke my selfe out of your iealousie . Sim.

How knowst it ?

Dau.

I haue heard so and beleeue it .

Sim. They are many & those grounded circumstances , Which my coniectures build on . Nere before Named she her selfe with childe by Pamphilus ; And that is false , vnlesse my iudgement erre : But seeing now a wedding is preparing , A midwife streight is sent for , by the maid , Who was to bring a young borne childe with her . Dau. Vnlesse you see a childe , the wedding still Stands fairely . Sim. I but , sirra tell me this , When thou hadst found they plotted this among them , her ? Why told you not it streight to Pamphilus ? Dau. Pray , but my selfe then who hath drawn him from We know how fondly he did dote vpon her : Now he desires a wife to liue withall . In fine , trust me with this whole businesse : Yet pursue you , to make the marriage vp ; And I doe hope the Gods will further it . Sim. Nay , get you in ; there see you stay my comming : And haue such things as need in readinesse . Exit Dauus He hath not drawne me yet to giue full credit To this he saies ; nor to conclude all true . But I regard it little : the maine thing I rest on , is the promise of my Sonne . I le now goe speake with Chremes , and desire He would bestow his daughter : that obtaind , Why should I linger ? and not now this day Finish the match a foot ? doubtlesse my Sonne Will stand t' his word : if not , what hinders me Enter Chremes . But I may force him ? and in good time see Where Chremes is , Chremes good time of day .
Scen. 3. Chr.

OH ! you are the man I sought for .

Sim.

And I you .

Chr. Y' are come as I would wish : a many men Haue press'd vnto me ; who report as heard From you , that on this very day your Sonne Should wed my daughter . Now I come to see Whether or you or they be from their wits ? Sim. Pray list a while , and I will satisfie This doubt : and withall acquaint you further What suit I haue vnto you . Chr. I attend . Say what you please . Sim. Chremes I request you For loue of God ; and for the vnfeigned friendship Which in our youth begunne along together Hath growne vp with our yeares ; by the respect You beare your onely child ; for my Sonnes cause Chiefe power of whose preseruing lies in you , Lend me your furtherance in this businesse , That the match this day meant may so go on . Chr. Oh! I pray craue it not , as if 't were fit I should in this thing listen to your suit ? Thinke you me alterd from the man I was , When late I made you promise ? if 't may be For both our welfares , take my daughter to you But if hereby more harme then good will follow To either of vs by it , then I pray Cast for the common good : as if my daughter Were yours , I father to your Pamphilus . Sim. Nay , that 's my meaning Chremes : and I doe Craue nothing of you but vpon such tearmes : Nor would I aske it of you , if the case It selfe did not require it . Chr.

Why , how is 't ?

Sim.

There 's iarre betweene Glycerium and my sonne .

Chr.

I heare .

Sim.

So great , I hope 't will sunder them .

Chr.

A tale .

Sim.

In very deede t is so

Chr. Indeede It will iust so ( as I shall tell thee ) proue ; The iarres of louers giue fresh life to loue . Sim. I , but I pray you let vs preuent that , Whilst his loues flame is smotherd by abuse : Before this harlots leaud designes , false teares Reduce his sickly minde to passion , Let s marrie 'hem . Chremes I haue good hope , Faire wedlocke and a wiues experienc'd loue Will eas'ly plucke him out of these feard ils . Chr. You thinke so : but I deeme 't impossible That either they will alwaies liue together , Or I may indure their iarring . Sim. How doe you know , Vnlesse you make a triall ? Chr. But 't were hard For me to make such triall in my childe . Sim. Why , all the inconuenience which can happen Should the worst fall ( which I pray God forbid ) Were at the most a separation . In counterpoise now weigh the benefits That will insue , if my sonne proue reclaim'd : First you restore t' your friend his sonne : your selfe Gaine a fast sonne in law : your childe a husband . Chr. Why , if you thinke it so commodious , For my part I will be no hindrance too 't . Sim.

I iustly alwaies held you my best friend .

Chr.

But as to that you said .

Sim.

What ?

Chr. Marrie how know you There 's now debate betweene 'hem . Sim. Dauus selfe ( who is their Counsels inward secretarie ) So told me ; and withall aduisd me further To haste the marriage with all speed I could . Thinke you he would doe thus , but that he knowes . My sonne desires it likewise ? you your selfe Shall heate him . Ho there , one call Dauus forth . Enter Dauus . But loe , I see him comming out a doores .
Scen. 4. Dau.

I Was a comming to you .

Sim.

What 's the matter ?

Dau.

Why is the bride not sent for ? it growes late .

Sim. Doe you now heare him ? I will tell thee Dauus , I lately had thee in some iealousie ; That thou didst take the course most seruants hold , By seeking to delude me in the matter . Of Pamphilus wanton louing . Dau.

Who , I sit ?

Sim. I thought so : and for that I kept from you A secret , I le now vtter . Dau.

What was that ?

Sim.

I le tell thee ; for I almost now doe trust thee .

Dau.

At length you finde what seruant you haue of me .

Sim.

This was not to haue bin a marriage

Dau.

What , no .

Sim. But I therefore counterfaited , That I might feele your mindes . Dau.

What is t you say ?

Sim.

Iust as thou hear'st .

Dau. La yee ; I could neuer , Thinke such a matter : oh fine cunning plot ? Sim. List this ; when hence I bad thee get thee in , Chremes came fitly to me . Dau. Are we troe Not lost for euer ? Sim. I told all to him Thou late toldst me . Dau.

What heare I ?

Sim. Begg'd of him , And scarce at length won him to giue his daughter . Dau.

I am vndone .

Sim.

What saist ?

Dau.

Excellently done .

Sim.

Now he 's not backward .

Chre. I le straight get me home , And leaue word all be had in readinesse ! Thence giue you notice . Sim. Now I prechee Dauus , Exit Chremes Since thou alone hast wrought this marriage for vs — Dau.

Yes sure , I was th' onely worker .

Sim. Doe now Indeauour further to reclaime my sonne . Dau.

Yes truely , I will looke too t carefully .

Sim.

Thou maist now do it , whil'st his minde is vexed .

Dau.

Pray take no Care .

Sim. Looke too t then : But where now is he himselfe ? Dau.

T is marle but he 's at home .

Sim. I le too him then , and to himselfe deliuer All I told thee . Dau. I am now iust nothing . Exit Simo . What hinders , but I fairely take my way Directly to the mill , and fall a grinding ? Intreatie may doe nothing ; I haue drawne All things to such confusion : first deceiu'd My Master : then haue headlong thrust his sonne Vpon a marriage , that he look'd not for : And cleane against his will : and this to day To be made vp , by my alone procurement . Pray marke th' end of cunning : had I sat still , No euill in the world had happened . Enter Pamphilus . And see where he is . I am a meere dead man . Would I had any meanes to breake my necke now .
Scen. 5. Pam.

WHere is the villaine has vndone me ?

Dau.

I Am a plaine castaway .

Pam. But I confesse T is iustly fall'n vpon me ; since I am So idle , vaine , and inconsiderate : Ought I to trust my whole state to a slaue ; A prating slaue ? I haue my follies hire : But vnreueng'd he nere shall scape with it . Dau.

I le nere doubt tempest , if I scape this storme .

Pam. But now what answer shall I make my father ? Shall I denie to marrie , who but now Consented to it ? with what impudence May I dare doe it ? neither with my selfe Know I what course to take . Dau. Troth nor I , neither But I am canuassing my braines about it . I le tell him I le forthwith finde out some meanes A little to put off his threatned vengeance . Pam.

Oh —

Dau.

I 'm spide .

Pam. Oh , you sir , honest fellow Come neerer : what saist to me ? doe you see now How I am puzled through your goodly counsell ? Dau.

I le presently make all cleare .

Pam.

Thou make cleare ?

Dau.

Pamphilus indeede I will .

Pam.

I , as erewhile .

Dau.

Nay , I hope better

Pam. Trust thee pillorie ? Or thou make good a case perplexed , lost ? See what a suresby I haue trusted too ; Who from a quiet state I late stood in , This day hast thrust me on a mariage : Did I not tell thee it would thus fall out ? Dau.

You did .

Pam.

What hast then deserued

Dau. Hanging . A little yet let me collect my selfe . I le streight finde out some helpe . Pam. Oh me accurst : Why want I time to plague thee as I would ? This scarce will serue my danger to preuent , Permits me not pursue thy punishment . Exeunt Pamphilus and Dauus .
Act. 4.
Scen. 1. Enter Charinus at one doore ; Pamphilus and Dauus at another . Cha. MAy 't be beleeu'd ? or may it once be talk'd on ? That any should be so selfe-wild peruerse , As to take pleasure in anothers harmes ? Or thinke his owne gaine sweeter , if procur'd By others disaduantage ? oh good God! Is this a brood of men ? Men let them be ; Worst are they of the generation . They shew a little tricksey modestie , Not to denie a craued curtesie : But when performance comes , they then declare ( Nature will shew it selfe ) what men they are . They are asham'd a little , but in triall Their temper bursteth forth to flat deniall . Then shall you heare their shamelesse Oratorie — Pray who are you ? are what at least to me . Why yeeld my loue to you ? good sir attend , I am vnto my selfe the neerest friend . Touch them with faith and troth , they blush no whit : So that when no constraint inforceth it , They make some scruple ; when it comes to th' pinch , Then at the proofe your hollow friend doth flinch . But what 's my best course ? shall I to him streight , And with him this his wrong expostulate ? And ply him with harsh tearmes ? but some may say , What good shall I procure my selfe that way ? Yes much : I shall both chafe him , and giue ease To my grieu'd heart . Pam. Charinus , lesse God please To succour vs , I haue both thee and me Against my will vndone vnwarily . Cha. Vnwarily : is that word now thought on ? Y' haue broke your promisd faith . Pam.

As how , I pray ?

Cha.

Seeke you againe with faire words to abuse me ?

Pam.

What meanes this ?

Cha. After I said I lou'd her , You must needes like her too . Oh me accurst , That scantled out your dealing by mine owne ! Pam.

You are mistaken .

Cha. Seem'd your content not full , Vnlesse you fool'd , and with false hope traind on A wretched louer ? much good doe ye ; take her . Pam. I take her ? oh I perceiue thou knowst not In what a gulfe of miserie I am plung'd : What pecke of troubles this my torturer Hath brought me to , by harkning to his counsell . Cha.

No marle : he takes his president from you .

Pam. You would not say this , if you fully knew Or me , or her I 'ue set my fancie on . Cha. Yes , I doe know ; you were at hot high words Late with your father ; and haue angred him , Because he cannot make you marrie her . Pam. Nay , which discouers thou lesse knowst my griefe , This mariage neuer was prepar'd for me : Nor did now any force me to a wife . Cha.

I know 't your owne will forc'd you .

Pam.

Tarrie , yet thou knowst not all .

Cha.

I know thou 'st marrie her .

Pam. Why doe you thus torment me ? heare but this He neuer ceased to be vrgent on me , That I should tell my father I would marrie : To intreat , perswade , till he had drawne me to it . Cha.

What man did this .

Pam.

This Dauus .

Cha.

Dauus ?

Pam.

Dauus brings all things out of square .

Cha.

What the inducement ?

Pam. I nothing know , except this one thing onely , That I well see the Gods are much displeased With me , for listning to him . Cha

Did you thus Dauus ?

Dau.

I did .

Cha. Ha , what faist thou caitife ? The gods giue thee a death fitting thy doings . Sir tha , but tell me ; say that all his foes Had laid their heads together for a plot To yoake him to a wife , what stratagem Could they haue fram'd more speeding then this was ? Dau.

I am deceiu'd , but faint not .

Cha.

I , I know 't .

Dau. It thriu'd not this way , wee le attempt some other . Vnlesse you iudge because at first we sped not , There 's no meanes iest vs to salue vp the mischiefe . Pam. Nay more , I well beleeue if thou watch for it , Of one thou lt make me out a double marriage . Dau. I ( Pamphilus ) by reason of my bondage Owe you thus much : to doe , goe , night and day To indeauour all I may , with my liues hazard , For your aduantage : it is yet your part To beare with me , if things come crosse my hopes : My plots faile ; yet I vse all carefulnesse : Your selfe else frame things wiseher , discharge me . Pam.

I craue thou leaue me in that state thou foundst me ;

Dau.

I will .

Pam.

But 't must be streight .

Dau. How now ! hist , stay . Glyceriums doore did creake . Pam.

That 's nought to thee .

Dau.

I am a forging .

Pam.

How , is 't now to forge .

Dau.

But I will giu 't you fashion'd presently .

Scen. 2. Enter Mysis . Mys. WHere ere he be , I le finde your Pamphilus And bring him with me streight ; Meane while good heart vex not your selfe . Pam.

Mysis ?

Mys. What 's the matter ? Oh , was 't you Pamphilus ? you are well met . Pam.

What newes ?

Mys. My Mistresse praies you of all loue To come to her : she longs to speake with you . Pam. I am a forlorne wretch : the mischiefe spreads . That she and I should both be thus perplexed By meanes of thee ? for I am therefore sent for Because she heares my wedding is prepared . Cha. From which how easily had you now bin quiet , Had he bin quiet ? Dau. Yes , so , goe on : If of himselfe he be not vexd inough , Vrge him on further . Mys. I indeede t is that Does now afflict her . Pam. Mysis , I doe sweare By all the Gods vnto thee , I will neuer Forsake her : no , though I were sure thereby To vndergoe the whole worlds enmitie . I did desire her ; haue obtaind her ; see That we both iumpe in mindes , and qualitie . Farewell to all that seeke vs two to seuer : But death none takes her from me . Cha.

I recouer

Pam. I doe desire ( if 't may be so borne vp ) My father should not thinke I am the cause The marriage holds not : if that cannot be , I le take the next course : that he may perceiue I crosse it . What kinde of man doost thinke me . Cha.

Faith euery way as wretched as my selfe .

Dau.

I cast for helpe .

Cha.

I , thou hast a good heart .

Dau.

And will effect it for you .

Pam.

'T must be now .

Dau.

Why , I ha 't now .

Cha.

What is it ?

Dau. You mistake ; It is for him , not you . Cha.

I am content .

Pam.

Say , what wilt doe ?

Dau. I haue scarce day enough To finish it I feare : and thinke me not At leasure therefore now , to tell you it . But get y' hence both ; you , now but hinder me . Pam.

I le visite her here .

Dau.

And you , whither you ? Exit Pamphilus .

Cha.

Wilt thou I tell thee truth ?

Dau.

Nay see , he makes a prologue to a tale .

Cha.

What doost for me ?

Dau. Oh impudent ! is 't not inough I giue thee Some houres ; by putting off his marriage ? Cha.

Yet Dauus —

Dau.

Well , what ?

Cha.

That I may haue her . —

Dau.

Ridiculous !

Cha. Yet if thou canst do ought — Come home to me . Dau. To what end should I come ? I nothing haue to helpe thee . Cha.

I but if —

Dau.

Well , I will come .

Cha. If thou canst thinke of ought I le be at home . Exit Charinus . Dau. Mysis , while I goe hence Stay here a little for me . Mys.

To what end ?

Dau.

T is needfull now , thou do so .

Mys.

Make hast then .

Dau.

I will be here straightway againe with thee .

Exit Dauus .
Scen. 3. Mys. THat no one holdeth any thing in certaine ? Your helpe good Gods ! I thought this Pamphilus Had bin my Mistresses firme , chiefest good ; Tooke him to be her friend , her louer , husband ; Ready at all essaies to stand to her : And yet what griefe sustaines she now through him ? Hence sure more ill she reapes then good from him . But here comes Dauus . Enter Dauus . What 's that prithee friend ? the childe ? Whither doost beare it ?
Scen. 4. Dau. MYsis , now I neede thy readiest memorie and wit In this I goe about . Mys.

What art to doe ?

Dau. Take the childe from me streight , & lay it downe Before our doore . Mys.

What on the bare ground pray ?

Dau. Take a few strewings from the altar there — And lay 'hem vnder . Mys.

Why doost not thou thy selfe ?

Dau. That if perchance my Master vrge my oath T was not my doing , I may safely sweare it . Mys. I vnderstand you : but pray tell me whence This now new tender conscience comes vpon thee ? Dau. Stir you more quicke ; that you may further know What t is I haue in hand . Oh Iupiter ! Enter Chremes . Mys.

What ?

Dau.

The father of the bride is come on vs . leaue the course which I at first intended .

Mys.

I know not what you talke on ?

Dau. My selfe too Will make as if I came from the right hand . Haue you a care now as occasion serues You marke my talke , and suit your words to mine . Mys. I vnderstand nothing you goe about : But if in any thing you neede my helpe Or see more then my selfe , I here will stay , That I may be no hindrance in your way . Exit Dauus .
Scen. 5. Chr. HAuing prepared all in readinesse Was needfull to my Daughters marriage , I now returne to will 'hem send for her . But what is here ? so helpe me God , a childe ! Weman , laid you this childe here ? Mys.

Where is hee ?

Chr.

Doost not answer me ?

Mys. Woes me , out of sight . Alas , Dauus has left me : and is gone . Enter Dauus . Dau. Faith of the Gods ! What coile 's yond' at the Market ? What throng of wranglers braule there ? and beside Corne beares excessiue price . I know not now What other words to vse . Mys. For Gods sake man Why left you me alone here ? Dau. Hoida what Denice is this ? you Mysis , whence this childe ? Or who here laid it ? Mys. Are you in your wits , To aske me that ? Dau. Of whom else should I aske , That see none else here ? Chr.

I marle whence it is .

Dau.

wost tell me .

Mys.

Au !

Dau.

Come here , o' my right side .

Mys.

Th' art mad did not your selfe ?

Dau. Looke thou beware Thou vtter not a word , but what I aske thee . Mys.

D' yee threaten me ?

Dau.

From whence is it ? speake out .

Mys.

From you .

Dau. Ha , ha , he , is t newes , if women Of your condition doe grow impudent ? Chr.

This maid belongs to th' Andrian , as I thinke .

Dau. Seeme we such fitting persons to you , troe That you should play on vs ? Chr.

I came in time .

Dau. Therefore with speede take you the childe away Ilence from our doore : yet stay , see thou stirre not One inch out of this place . Mys. The Gods confound thee That me poore woman frightst thus . Dau.

Do I speake to thee , or not ?

Mys.

What would you ?

Dau. Askt thou still ? Say , tell me whose childe t is thou hast laid here ? Mys.

Doe not you know ?

Dau. Talke not of what I know , But tell me that I aske . Mys.

T is of your house

Dau.

Whose , of vs ?

Mys.

Pamphilus .

Dau.

Ha , what , Pamphilus ?

Mys.

I st not ?

Chr.

I alwaies rightly shunn'd this match .

Dau.

Oh notable vile practise !

Mys.

Why exclaimst thou ?

Dau. Which childe did not my selfe see yesternight Brought late to you ? Mys.

Oh most audacious fellow

Dau.

T is truth , I saw Canthara thicke stuft out .

Mys. I thanke the Gods yet , that some Citie wiues Were present at the labour . Dau. She not knowes Him ( I assure thee ) for whose cause she plots this . She thinkes if Chremes see a child laid here , Heel 'e not bestow his daughter : yes of truth , For this the rather . Chr.

Faith but he will not though .

Dau. Now therefore , for thy knowledge , take it hence Or I will tumble it in the high way ; And further lay thee by it in the kennell . Mys.

Thou certainly art drunke .

Dau. One cunning pranke Treads on anothers hee le . I heare it whisperd She 's a free-borne Athenian . Chre.

Ha!

Dau. And that He shall be forc'd by law to marrie her . Mys.

Why sir I pray you , is she not free-borne ?

Chr. I had almost vnawares iested my selfe Into a dangerous mischiefe . Dau. Who talkes here ? Oh Chremes you are come in happy time . Pray listen sir — Chr.

I haue heard all already .

Dau.

How all say you ?

Chr.

I , from the beginning all .

Dau. Haue you pray heard it ? see their villanies ! T is fit she were hence hurried to the racke . This is the man I talk'd of : doe not thinke You play your trickes on Dauus . Mys. Oh wretched mee ! Indeede ( good old Sir ) I haue spoke no falshood . Chr. I know all to the full : but is your Master Simo within ? Dau.

Yes Sir .

Exit Chremes . Mys. Roague hand me not . Troth if Glycerium know not of all this — Dau. Attend you foole , thou knowst not what is done : This the brides father : by no other meanes Could he be made to know what we would haue him . Mys.

Why then you should haue told me on 't .

Dau. Doest thinke There no great difference , when a thing is carried The naturall way , and when premeditate .
Scen. 6. Enter Crits. Crit. T Is told me Chrysis dwelt in this same street : Who rather chose heere leaudly to grow rich , Then in her Countrie honestly liue poore : She dead , the Law hath cast her state on me . But now I see some I may question : God saue you . Mys. Oh good God whom doe I see ? Is not this Crito , Chrisis Cozen German ? T is he . Crit.

Oh Mysis ! you are well met .

Mys. The Gods Prosper you Crito . Crit.

Chrysis then is — well ?

Mys.

Yes truely she has left vs , to th' wide world .

Crit.

And you , what shift d' ye make ? any thing well ?

Mys. We ? faith e'en according to the prouerbe ; Liue as we can , since cannot as we would . Crit.

Glycerium — what , hath she yet sound her parents ?

Mys.

I would she had .

Crit. What not yet ? I came hither In an vnluckie houre : for had I knowne it I sure would ne'er haue stirr'd a soot this way . She alwaies was both said and deem'd her sister And holds all that was hers : now for me their To follow law suits being here a stranger , How easie and commodious 't may be Rife precedents of other men do warne me . Besides , I iudge by this she has got her selfe Some friend and patron : for when she came thence She had well-neere attained to ripe yeeres Men will cry out I am a sycophant , A begger laying claime to others right : Withall , my selfe list not impouerish her : Mys.

Good Crito , you still hood your ancient course .

Crit. Bring me vnto her , since I am come hither , I may at least yet see her . Mys.

Yes I will .

Dau

I le follow yet the old man shall not see me .

Mysis and Crito enter Glyceriums house and Dauus followes them .

Act. 5.
Scen. 1. Enter Chremes and Simo out of Simoes house . Chr. SImo enough , I haue enough tride your friend ship : Venturd sufficient hazard , pray now leaue Intreating . Whilst I seeke to pleasure you I almost trifled my childes life away . Sim. Nay , but I earnestly begge and craue Chremes , This your good turne now late begun in words You would in deedes make vp . Chr Note how vniust You grow , through earnestnesse to worke your aimes : You nor consider bounds in curtesies , Nor yet what t is you crame : for if you did , Youl l cease to load me with these iniuries . Sim.

What iniuties ?

Chr. Oh , doe you question them ? You wrought me to bestow my onely childe To one intangled in a strangers loue : A wilde yong youth abhorring marriage : To most sure discord , marriage as insure ; That by her griefe and sorrow I might phisicke Your riotous sonne : this y' obtain'd : I went on , Whil'st things permitted : now that the case not brooks it , You must brooke my deniall . T is affirmd This stranger is fice borne ; hath a childe by him : Leaue troubling vs . Sim. By all the Gods I beg You would not bend your minde to trust these people , Whose best aduantage t is , to make him worst . These things are onely feign'd and fashioned To dash the wedding : take away the cause Moues them to this , they 'll straight way leaue contriuing . Chr. Y' are wide : My selfe saw a maide scolding here With Dauus . Sim.

I know 't .

Chr. I but this was done In good sad earnest ; neither of them both Knowing that I was neere . Sim. I doe beleeue it And Dauus late told me it would be so . I know not how I did forget to tell you , As I had meant .
Scen. 2. Enter . Dauus out of Glyceriums house . Dau.

I Will you now rest quiet —

Chr.

See , here 's Dauus .

Sim.

Whence comes he ?

Dau.

Through my furthrance and this guests .

Sim.

What new mischiefe ?

Dau.

Man , time , comming fitter , I neuer saw .

Sim.

Who is t , the roague so praises ?

Dau.

All 's now secure .

Sim.

Cease I to speake to him ?

Dau

My Master ! what 's my course ?

Dau. Oh Simo , oh our Chremes , All things are now in readinesse within . Sim.

Th' hast lookt too 't well .

Dau.

When you please , send for her .

Sim. T is very well ; but that course now here failes vs . But may I know , what thou hadst there to doe ? Dau.

I Sir .

Sim.

I , Sir .

Dau.

Me meane you ?

Sim.

Yes , meane thee .

Dau.

I went in but now —

Sim.

As if I ask 't thee , when ?

Dau.

Together with your sonne .

Sim. Is my sonne there ? I wretch am set o' th racke . Diddst not hangman Tell me , they were at deadly oddes together ? Dau.

They are .

Sim.

What does he there then ?

Chr. Hee ? what thinkst ? I warrant railing at her . Dau. Nay but Chremes I le tell you now of a strange accident . I know not what old man is newly come , Note him , a man both confident and wise , When you shall see him , you 'l much value him . A graue austerity rests on his face ; And in his words dwell faith . Sim.

What newes bring'st thou ?

Dau.

No other , then I heard that man report .

Sim.

And what doo's he report ?

Dau. That he doo's know Glycerium here , a free Athenian borne . Sim.

Hoe Dromo , Dromo .

Enter Dromo . Sim. Dromo . Dro.

What 's the matter ?

Dau.

Heare me .

Sim.

If thou speakest one word more — Dromo .

Dau.

I doe beseech you heare me .

Dro.

What would y' haue ?

Sim.

Hoist in this fellow here , hence speedily .

Dro.

Whom ?

Sim.

Dauus .

Dau.

Why ?

Sim. For it is my pleasure . Away with him I say . Dau.

What haue I done ?

Sim.

In with him .

Dau. If you shall finde I haue ly'de In any thing , then kill me . Sim. I le heare nothing . I le streightway put thee into motion . Dau.

Though that I said the truth ?

Sim. Though — see you I le be kept bound ; and heare you , bound all foure . I le shew thee , what t is to abuse a Master , If I but liue this day : and teach the other What t is to crosse a father . Exit Dromo with Dauus . Chr.

Oh , I pray you rage not so much .

Sim. Chremes doost not , seeing How vnkindely he deales with me , pittie me ? That I should toyle and care for such a sonne ? But Pamphitus you , come you out Pamphilus : Doth any shame possesse thee ?
Scen. 3. Enter Pamphilus . Pam. WHo cald me ? I am lost , it is my father . Sim. What saist now ? Thou of all — Chr. Oh , rather goe to th' point man : And spare ill speaking . Sim. As if any thing Can be spoke ill inough of such a one ? But Sirrha say , is your Glycerium now Free borne of Athens ? Pam.

So they say of her .

Sim. Doe they say so ? Monstrous audaciousnesse ! Considers he his words ? grieues at his deedes ? Or shewes his colour any note of shame ? That he should be of such deboshed manners , That cleare beyond all precedent of freemen , Against the forme of law , in opposition Of me his father , he should bend to haue her Though 't reach to th' highest pitch of infamie ? Pam.

Oh me most wretched !

Sim. Doost thou now at length Perceiue that Pamphilus ? that word of old Of old that word then truely fitted thee , When first thou setst thy heart to please thy selfe ; Though at what rate soeuer compassed . But wherefore doe I thus ? why yex my soule ? Why waste my selfe away ? why doe I grieue My old and fainting age with his youths follies ? Shall I indure the pennance of his faultings ? No , let him haue her ; I , God speede him well ; Yes , let him keepe with her . Pam

Oh my father —

Sim. Why call'st me father ? as if thou hadst neede Of me to be thy father ? a house , wise , Children are had maugre thy fathers will : Fellowes are hir'd shall beare her vp freeborne . Y' haue got the mast'tie . Pam. I beseech you father , May I haue leaue to vtter a few words . Sim.

What wilt say to me ?

Chr.

Vet heare him Simo .

Sim.

I heare him : what is t Chremes I should heare him .

Chr.

Permit him tell you .

Sim.

Well , tell he : I permit

Pam I doe confesse I loue this woman here If it be faultie , I confesse that too . Further I yeeld me vp to your full pleasure , Lay any taske , any command vpon me . Will you I marrie that , leaue this ? I will Indure it as I may . But this one thing I begge of you , that you would not imagine That this old man is by my meanes brought in Suffer me cleare my selfe , and fetch him hither Into your presence Sim.

Fetch him .

Pam.

Let mee pray .

Chr.

He craues but reason , grant it .

Pam.

I pray sir .

Exit Pamphilus . Sim. Well , I doe : I wish Chremes ought be proued , So that I finde he doos not iuggle with me . Chr. Sleight accusation in a sonnes offence Sufficeth for a father .
Scen. 4. Enter Crito and Pamphilus . Crit. CEase to intreat . Each of the reasons you haue vs'd , perswade me To your request ? either your owne selfe cause , Or for it is a truth , or cause I wish All furtherance vnto Gl Chr. Doe I not see Crito of Andros there ? T is he . Crito you are here well met : You haue bin long a stranger here : what chance Hath brought you now to Athens . Crit. An occasion . But is this Simo ? Chr.

Yes .

Sim Aske you for me ? D' yee heare sir , is it you that doe affirme Clycerium to be free borne of Athens ? Crit.

Are you one , doe denie it ?

Sim. Is 't eene so ? Come you so well prepared too ? Crit.

Wherefore ?

Sim. Doost thou vse question ? thinkst thou to escape Fairely thus of with 't ? seekest thou to worke on The easie natures of vnguided youth , Peruerting our well nurtur'd children ? Winning their hearts with fawning promises . And this , in Athens . Crit.

Are you in your wits ?

Sim.

And harlot-loues knit'st vp in marriage ?

Chr. If you knew this man Simo thoroughly , You would not iudge so : he is an honest man . Sim. An honest man ; to come iumpe in th' instant Of dosing hands , and nere seene here before ? Chremes , may such a man be credited ? Pam. If I not doubted to displease my father I easily could prompt him to that point . Sim.

Cauelling sycophant —

Crit.

How ?

Chr. Forbeare Crito ; It is his temper . Crit. Let him regard his temper : If he will vent his pleasure vpon me He shall be forc'd to heare what will displease him . Trouble I his matters ? or yet care for 'hem ? Cannot you beare your owne ils patiently ? For my part , it may instantly be knowne Whether 't be false or true , you heard me say A certaine man of Athens , now long since Shiprackt at sea , was cast on Andros Isle ; And with him this Glycerium , then a childe : He being poore had harbour at the house Of Chrisis , father . Sim.

He begins a tale .

Chr.

Pray giue him leaue .

Crit. Does he disturbe me thus ? He that entertaind him was my kinsman : Of him I then heard , that this shipwrack'd man Was an Ithenian . Chr

Pray , what was his name ?

Crit.

His name so sodainly ? Pha — Pha-nia .

Chr.

Oh , my heart !

Crit. Yes sure , I thinke t was Phania . This I well know , he nam'd himselfe of Ramnes . Chr.

O Iupiter !

Crit. A many moe in Andros Then heard it . Chr. I beseech the Gods , it proue According to my hopes : but pray you Crito , What said he of the childe , that t was his owne ? Crit.

No .

Chr.

Whos 's then ?

Crit.

The daughter of his brother .

Chr.

T is certainly mine owne .

Crit.

What doe you say ?

Sim.

What say you ?

Pam.

Pamphilus giue heed to this .

Sim.

Why thinke you so ?

Chr.

That Phania was my brother .

Sim.

I knew him well , and know that he was so .

Chr. He flying hence to auoid the rage of warre , Trauaild toward Asia in pursuit of me ; And feard withall to leaue the childe behinde : Since whence , now I heare the first newes of him . Pam. I scarcely feele my selfe : my mind 's so tost Twixt feare , and hope , and ioy , and wondring , At this so great , so sodaine happinesse . Sim.

In truth I much reioyce , she is found yours .

Pam. I doe beleeue you father . Chr. But there rests One scruple yet , which somewhat troubles me . Pa.

You are worthy now of hate , with these your scruples

Crit.

What is 't ?

Chr.

The name agrees not .

Crit. She had sure Another being young . Chr. What was it Crito ? Canst thou remember ? Crit.

I am thinking on 't .

Pam. Shall I permit his tardie memorie To slacken my ioyes current , being able Herein to giue my selfe a remedie ? No , I will not : harke you hither Chremes ; The name you doubt of is Pasibula . Crit.

That 's it .

Chr.

T is right .

Pam. I heard it of her selfe At least a thousand times . Sim. I beleeue Chremes , You thinke we all ioy at it . Chr. As may the Gods Assist me , I doe thinke so . Pam.

What rests father ?

Sim.

The case it selfe now reconcileth vs .

Pam. Oh my most louing father and you Chromes Change nothing in the wife I now possesse ? Chr.

The cause is iust , your father so agreeing .

Pam.

Thus much —

Sim.

Yea marrie —

Chr.

Her dowre Pamphilus I make ten talents .

Pam.

I accept of it .

Chr. I le forthwith see my daughter : Crito , pray Goe with me ; for I thinke she knowes me not . Sim.

Why cause you not your wife be brought to vs ?

Pam.

You warne me well , I le eene giue Dauus charg out .

Sim.

He cannot now effect it .

Pam.

Pray why so ?

Sim.

Has more and greater charge vpon himselfe .

Pam.

What ?

Sim.

Hee 's bound .

Pam

Hee 's not bound rightly father .

Sim.

No ; I did will him be bound otherwise .

Pam.

Pray order he be loosd .

Sim.

Well , be it so .

Pam.

But good sir , haste .

Sim.

I le in and see it done .

Exit Simo . Pam.

Oh happie , oh this prosperous blessed day .

Scen. 5. Enter Charinus . Cha.

I Come to see how Pampirlus speeds , and loe .

Pam. Some man perhaps may think I feed on dreames : But now I please to thinke all reall truth . I on this ground iudge the Gods liues eternall , Because heir pleasure 's certainly their owne For I my selfe haue gaind immortall state , If with this ioy no griefe ere intermeddle But who might I now wish especially Here at this time , to tell the tidings to ? Enter Dauus . Chae.

What ioy is that he talkes of ?

Pam. I now see Dauus our man : there is no liuing one , I rather would haue had . I know he wil ? Full truely ioy in the true ioy I feele .
Scen. 6. Dau.

Where is this Pamphilus trow ?

Pam.

Dauus Dau . Who 's that ?

Pam.

T is I .

Dau.

Oh Pamphilus !

Pam.

Thou knowest not what has befall'n me ?

Dau.

True : yet know , what has chanc'd me .

Pam.

And so do I .

Dau. Why this happes iust o th' fashion , That you my ill lucke learne , ere I your good . Pam.

Glycerium hath found out her parents .

Dau.

Good .

Cha.

How 's that ?

Pam.

Her father our chiefe friend .

Dau.

Who is t ?

Pam.

Chremes .

Dau.

Oh braue !

Pam. Nor now is any stay , But that I take her home forthwith to wife . Cha.

Dreames he trow , of things he desires waking ?

Pam.

Now Dauus , for the child ?

Dau. Leaue of I pray : The gods sure purpose him their minion . Cha. I am a made man , if these things be true I le speake to 'hem . Pam. O Charinus , Thou com'st in a fit time . Cha.

Oh happie newes .

Pam.

Hast heard on t then ?

Cha. Yes all : pray thinke on me , Now in the height of your felicitie . Chremes is now your owne , and I do know He le yeeld to any thing you motion . Pam. I mind it . But 't would now be ouer-long Heere to attend , till he come forth to vs . Follow me in ; he 's with Glycerium . Get you home Dauus , hasten ; and procure Some that may beare her hence : why stand'st thou so ? Why staiest thou still ? Dau.

Sir I le go presently .

Exeunt Pamphilus , and Charinus . Epilogue .
Epilogue by Dauus . Addition , by way of paraphrase on Dauus last words in the Scene . I Note you sit with kind attention bent , As pleasd with what hath passed ; and expect The further issue of our argument ; And on the marrage now your minds reflect . We pray you cease such expectation ; For we haue done : the bride you do conceiue But newly brought to bed ; night comming on Women shall beare her hence , at Sionoes leaue . Chremes hs younger daughter Philumen Charinus gets , at sure of Pamphilus . Crito of Andros , who has beene the meane The long lost child should be discouerd thus , What course he now shall take to obtaine his right In Chrysis goods , I here not mention will ; Nor in indeed can I : I haue no insight In law points , triable at Mars his hill . Yet knowing Chremes nature tractable , Seeing withall he hath dealt liberally In portion , so that amph lus is able To beare the losse , though-common honestic Did not exact it I not doubt they will Vse the poore stranger well . Me you haue scene heis Venture to binding , grinding in the Mill : That fell on me , this was approaching neare . I purpose further in their ioy to sue My present freedome : Pamphilus loue I haue , Glyceriums also ; both I thinke of due : My Masters chase is off I onely craue Your furtherance in the matter ; which if gaind , I haue good hope : for I haue heard it sed By men i th' Periclaean lawes well read , If I make you my friends , my sute 's obtaind : For they haue told me my discharge now stands not vpon whispering voyces ; but clapt hands . Finis Andriae .
THE EVNVCH .
The ARGVMENT .

A Citizen of Athens dwelling at Sunium a port-towne of Attica hauing two children , Chremes a Sonne , and Pamphila a daughter , had his daughter stolne away by Pyrats when she was of such tender age that she could onely tell her owne and parents names . After this the Athenian died . The Pyrats sold the child to a Merchant of Rhodes , who gaue her to a Strumpet which he loued . This Harlot had a daughter called Thais , somewhat elder then Pamphila : Which children she so brought vp together , that all men of Rhodes did repute them for Sisters . Thais in processe of time tooke to her mothers trade of life ; and yeelding vp her selfe to a strangers deuotion , was by him caried to Athens ; where he dying left her good means . He thus dead , she was taken vp by one Thraso a souldier : he also hauing a while accompanied her , had occasion of trauaile into Caria . Meane while the mother of Thais died at Rhodes : Her goods fell to a brother , who ( with them ) exposed to sale the abouenamed Pamphila , iust vpon the time wherein the soldier passed that way . Her youth and beautie induced the souldier ( ignorant of all passages ) to buy her , as a fit gift to bestow on Thais at his returne to Athens . But she before that time ( whores do not liue in expectation , nor vpon the meanes of one man onely ) had intertaind the loue of one Phaedria a young gentleman , sonne of an ancient Athenian Citizen . She also had by this time gained some inkling of the parentage of Pamphila , and that one Chremes a genteleman of Athens was in good likelihood natural brother to the maiden : for better discouery whereof , she had had conference with him ( a loofe off ) touching the matter . The souldier returnes to Athens bringing Pamphila along with him , ( her maiden-head is questiond by Terence , Act. 1. Sen. 2. in these words etiamne amplius ? To auoid matter vnfitting for the grace of the Comedie , but she was ( beyond any contrarie supposable coniecture ) a maiden : for a child might fillip this souldier out of his courage ; and foolerie was all the allurement he could vse to her ) and being thus returned , he finds Phaedria entred into Thais her bookes : out of which if he be not cleane wiped , Pamphila is not for her , as the souldier affirmeth . Terence hath set out this Thais as none of the worst of that course of life ; and withall of good discretion in her cariage . A Dilemma is now put vpon her ; loue and consideration are the two hornes : she must venture the goring by one of them . Loue pleades first , and this is naturall to her bloud ; and Phaedria besides deserues it . I but hee may be tendered a wife ; his appetite cloyd his father worke her displeasure . Resolute loue in spite of these premisses hath downe the conclusion On the other side a reputed sister , that sister hath good friends , those friends able to strengthen her vnsetled fortunes ; if by her meanes the one be restored to the other : Thus pleades Consideration . Wisely therefore she keepes the middle way for barring Phaedria her company for a brace of dayes ( telling him why ) she aimes to gull the souldier of the wench by this courtesie ; and then to recall Phaedria to his former contentment . Phaedria assents , leaues the Citie . giues withall charge to Parmeno his fathers man , for bringing an Eunuch to Thais in his absence : Phaedria gone , Thraso also sends Pamphila to her by Gnato a Parasite . In the passing of the maiden thither , Chaerea a younger brother of Phaedria spies her , falles in loue with her , dogges her , by accident looseth her , chafes with himself at it : then to Parmeno comming vpon him , discouers his mind and whereto caried . Parmeno informes him of an Eunuch by his brother Phaedria sent , and by him forthwith to be conueied to the very house where the maid abideth . So that by shifting cloathes with the Eunuch he may vndiscouered be brought to her ; the Eunuch nor hee having euer before beene seene by Thais or any of her family Chaerea followes the aduise , is brought thither , rauisheth the maiden . Much coyle hence ariseth , Pamphila at length being found to bee free-borne , Chaerea marries her ; Thais is taken into protection by the father of the two brothers . The Souldier for mirth and cost sparing is admitted among them , by Gnatoes perswasion , with the consent of Phaedria .

The Actors and their Characters .

SEnex , an old man not named by Terence ; father of two sonnes : himselfe being retired to his Countrey Grange , at his returne to the Citie findes that either of his sonnes haue playd Rex in his absence : his nature suddaine and fiery .

Phaedria one of his sonnes , a young man intangled with the loue of a harlot : well qualified and stragling with his faultie inclination .

Chaerea . Another of the old mans sonnes , an early Cocke of the game : the heate of his youthfull bloud violently caries him on to a rape : either he was passed an Ephebus , or Grammarians mistaken in the word , or else Terence hath beene very bold in the part of Chaerea lustfull , heady , head-strong .

Parmeno , Seruant of the family , wise and discreat while he giues aduise ; when he vndertakes imployment diligent and faithfull .

Thais , A strumpet of a sweete and pleasing disposition : gracefull in language , in maners free and indifferently modest . Terence ( in a word ) hath striued in her person to set out a tollerable harlot .

Pythias maid to Thais . A busie pratling house-wife .

Dorias another of her maides , of cleane contrary temper : an idle meacocke .

Chremes , A young countrie gentleman . Clownish of maners , very timerous and fearefull .

Sophrona an old nurse , she hardly huddles ouer the stage : And all the newes I heare from her , is this one word , Moueo .

Amipho a young gentleman of good demeanor , familiar .

Thraso . Gnato . These I couple : for what good Musique makes a trumpet without its ecco . The first a Parat , th' other a fellow clawing his poll . The souldier a bragging sot , of necessitie therefore a Cowheard ; the other a Clawbacke rubbing his proud itch . The Parasite thus farre wise , that he can make vse of his foolish Master : for he pickes matter of mirth and meanes out of him .

Sanga a Cooke , by consequence inclining to sawcinesse . Malepert .

The Prologue . IF there be any who their studies frame To giue good men contentment , displease none ; In their faire rancke our Poet files his name : If any further hold opinion , That harsh vnciuill tearmes to procure shame To any man , be here vngently sowne ; Let him thinke so a Gods name : but with all He lets them know , what euer words do passe , Do not on such as free inuectiues fall ; But forc'd replies of him first wronged was : To vtter the mans name not neede I shall : One , shrewdly tossed , leaudly glossed has Many Greeke comedies : and by that meane In that tongue good , in Latine marred cleane . 'T was he who but ere-while presented you Menanders Phasis . to name it is inough : But in the Treasure , there you saw him shew rare work , exceeding his rich stuffe . One man another for found gold did sue : ( Our Orators are but a glimmering snuffe To this bright Poets shining Oratory . ) Now in that case iudiciously he wrought The parrie at the barre , then defensorie , To plead first , for the gold inquestion brought ; Before the plaintiffe vrgd his iniurie ; or reason shewd why he by action sought Recouerie of that gold : or how the same into the combe of his dead father came . I wish him henceforth , he himselfe not flatter ; Or thinke ( his plaies being passd ) he stands secure This will be vnsafe refuge for the matter I haue against him : which ( I him assure ) Is kept in store : and ( cease he not to scatter His tales abroad our scandall to procure ; As he begins ; and leaue to vrge vs on ) Yet hull t shall be produc'd to publique view . This Eunuch now a foote for action Being by the Aediles bought , he hard did sue . To be at sight of the relation . The Ouerseers come , the Actors drew To the rehearsall . I beseech you now , But heare , what he hath challenged and how , My man baules out in roare , a pilferer No Poet hath now tenderd you a play : And yet in all the same , no one word neither Of 's owne , for 's money tenderd . Why , I pray ? Why out of Nauius , Plautus , ( chuse you whether ) All is purloind that you shall heare to day . And going on , the enuious point he plies ; That this is stale stuffe in each author named : That either of them in their Comedies The souldier and flatterers part haue framed : And that both thence are hither brought he cries . Which , if 't be such a fault as must be blamed ; Our Author sayes disknowing led him on : No purpos'd filching practise thought vpon . That this is so , may by you straight be tride : Menanders Flatterer hath a Parasite , Which Colax called is ; there is beside A braggart Souldier : that he did indite Those personages thence is not denide , To fill his Eunuch : but that he did wyte * * The Eunuch was neuer before produced in Latine . That this had euer beene the argument Of Latine playes before he vtterly Denyes . If this now be so insolent , To assume the persons vsed formerly By other Poets ; why is suffrance lent To frame a seruant running hastely ? To fashion harlots wonton ? matrons chaste ? Souldiers to vant ? parasites cramming fast ? Why of false children are drabbes brought to bed ? Why the old Master cheated by his slaue ? Why are not loue , hate , iealousie yet dead ? There is no sentence ( to conclude ) we haue , Which hath not formerly beene vttered . It is but reason therefore , if we craue Notice be tane ; and our course pardoned : If what in precedent the ancients gaue , New Poets modestly haue followed . Pray lend your fauor , and attentiue eare ; That you our Eunuches newes may fully heare .
Act. 1.
Scen. 1. Enter Phaedria and Parmeno . Phae. WHat should I then resolue on rot to go ? Not now at least , being so kindely sent to ? Or rather this way bend , my setled course , Not to indure these scornefull trickes of Whores ? She shut me out of doores ; now sends for me . Go ? neuer I , should she sue earnestly . Par. Sir , surely if you can do as you say , T were your most worthy , your most manly way . But if beginning , you so go not one , And faintly bearing loues affliction , When y' are not sought to , when you are at square Shall then come creeping to her ; and declare Your ardent loue , whose flames you cannot beare ; You are gone : shall be her pipe to play vpon , When you are sound at her deuotion . And therefore master timely yet consider , That such a thing as holdeth in it neither Reason , nor measure ; such vniuly thing Cannot be brought to reasons gouerning . In loue these vitious humours setled are ; Suspicious , wrongs , enmities , truces , warre , New league againe : Now this vncertaintie To draw to certaine , were like mistery , As if one should a proiect venture on To make a man mad with discretion . And what you now here to your selfe in passion Do vtter , shall I brooke this base queanes fashion ? Who hugges you 'd souldier ? barres her doore on me ? Not caring ? I le die first : she it shall see What manner man she has to do withall . These your high words , these hot tearmes tragicall With one false teare shall allay easily ; Which ( rubbing of her eyes most pittifully ) She hardly shall force from 'hem : and anon You le tender your owne accusation , And stoop to her set penance . Phae. Oh my hard fate ! I clearely find my selfe vnfortunate ; And her a wicked strumpet . I do frie In flames of loue to one I loathing flie : Knowing and seeing fall ; aliue , awake : Nor see my course . Par. To what course should you take , But seeke to gaine your libertie now lost , At what low rate you may ? if little cost Will not procure it , then at th' utmost price ; And do not vex your selfe . Phae.

That thy aduise ?

Par. If you be wise , and to loues miserie Ad not : what 't has , striue to beare moderately . Enter Thais . But she comes foorth ; our householdes knowne decay . For what we ought to haue , she sweepes away .
Scen. 2. Tha. Woes me , I feare Phaedria hath tane it hard And worse then I did meane it , he was bard His entrance here last day . Phae. Oh Parmeno , How I do shake and shudder euery part At sight of her . Par. I pray Sir take good heart . Approach that fire , you l be warmd thoroughly . Tha. Who 's that ? oh , were you my Phaedria so nigh ? Why staid you here ? why entred not straight way ? Par.

But nere a word of 's shutting out last day .

Tha.

Why art silent ?

Phae. Yes indeed I confesse Your house is still ope to my free accesse : And I the fau'rite . Tha.

Pray no more of this .

Phae. Why no more of it ? ô , ô , Thais , Thais , I would our loues were like ; that this might thee equally trouble , as it troubles me ; Or that I could not weigh thy iniurie . Tha. I prithee sweete heart Phaedria do not grieue Troth t was not that I loue any aliue More then thy selfe , I did it : but the case ( As things fell out ) so to be carried was . Par. Why , I beleeue her ; as things came about , The poore kind soule for meere loue shut him out . Tha. Say you so Parmeno ? Leaue that : and heare Wherefore I now sent for you . Phae.

Well . I heare .

Tha.

But pray say first , can this your man keepe counsell ?

Par. Who , I ? exceeding well . But heare you Thais ? I passe my word to you , with this prouiso , All truth I heare I hold in exlently : If lie , or toy , or fable , out it goes : I 'm full of chinckes then , I leake euery where : If therefore you l haue counsell kept , speake truth . Tha.

My mother borne at Samos , dwelt at Rhodes .

Par.

This may be well conceald .

Tha. There a merchant Bestowed a little girle vpon my mother , Stolne hence from Athens . Phae.

Was the child freeborne ?

Tha. I thinke so ; do not know the certainty . Her selfe did tell father and mothers name ; Country or other signes to be knowne by . She knew not ; nor indeede was 't possible By reason of her tender age she should . The Merchant thus much added , that he heard The Pirats say of whome he bought the child , That it was brought from Sunium . My mother Hauing receiu'd it , bred it , taught it so In euery thing , as if 't had beene her owne : And indeede most reputed her my Sister . Long after I left Rhodes , in company Of a then stranger , whom alone I kept to , And hither came . That stranger dying , gaue All the now goodes vnto me , which I haue . Par.

Either of these is false , t will out .

Tha.

Why so ?

Par. Because that neither were you satisfied With him alone , nor yet had all from him : Good and great part of it , my Master brought you . Tha. I grant thee but permit me to go on Whither I aime . Since that , a souldier Who had begunne to loue me , trauailed To Caria : after which I grew into Acquaintance with your selfe . And you well know . That I since then haue held you inwardly : Made you my bosomes onely Secretary . Phae.

Neither will this be husht by Parmeno .

Par.

ô do you make a doubt on t ?

Tha. Pray attend . My mother there at Rhodes deceased late ; Her couetous brother , heire to her estate , Nothing the wench was faire , and skilled well In Musique ; hop'd her at good rate to sell : So forth he brought her , sold her to my friend Who then there was ; and fully did intend To giue the maid to me : Yet nothing knew Of all the passage I haue told to you . He comming home , and vnderstanding too , That in my loue you likewise haue to do , He frames excuses to keepe backe the maid . For ( saies he to me ) could he get beliefe That he in my accompt should be held chiefe , And you put by ? or stood he not afraid I hauing got her from him , presently Would then forsake him ; he would giue her me ? But this he doubts . Yet I do rather guesse He fancies her . Phae.

Has he yet done no more ?

Tha. No surely : for my selfe haue ( Phaedria ) Vpon that point sisted her narrowly . For many reasons I desire to get her ; First for she 's deemd my sister : then beside That to her friends I may the maid deliuer . My selfe do here a louely woman bide , Hauing nor kinsemen here nor yet fast friend ; Wherefore I seeke to winne some Phaedria , By this good turne , I to the wench intend . For my more ready working , I do pray Thy helpe deare heart . The manner of my plot Is , by your free consent for some few dayes He may inioy my loue . Answer you not ? Phae Oh woman wickedst of all thy race ! Should I reply ought to thy filthy doings ? Par. ô our braue young Master ! I commend him . He 'es vext at length : now sir you are a man . Phae. The issue of the tale I could not find : Small girle stolne hence ; my mammy as her owne Bred it ; deemd sister ; haue a childing minde To hea't ; and to put it where t is knowne . Whereto doth this your tale now wheele about ? But that thou loust me lesse then yonder loute , And iealous art thy sweete pigsme doos toute On her , thee of his greazie grace cast out ? Tha.

I iealous of it ?

Phae. What else troubles thee ? Is he alone a giuer ? didst ere see My bounty slight or slacke ? when late you said You had a great mind to an Aethiop maid ; Did not I , laying all else care aside , Cast out for one ? and Eunuch too beside Thou wishedst ; cause great Ladies haue Such creatures ; I found one ; yesterday gaue Twentie pounds for 'hem . Now despis'd by thee , I yet retaine this in my memorie : For these my kindenesses thou slightes me . Tha. Why speake you Phaedria in this angry manner ? Though I desire her , and thinke may obtaine her Best this way : rather yet then haue a foe Of you , I le do as you will haue me do . Phae Would that word truly from thy heart were brought ; Rather then me thy foe if I but thought That this was spoke without dissembling , I could my selfe frame to beare any thing . Par.

How quickly one poore word hath tamed him ?

Tha. do I poore soule speake it dissemblingly ? What thing did you ere craue though reastingly At my hand , but you had it ? I of you Cannot obtaine leaue for a day or two . Phae

If onely two , and that if they prooue not twentie .

Tha.

Indeede but two , or —

Phae.

Or I wait nothing .

Tha.

Tshall be no more : pray yeeld this libertie .

Phae.

Well : Thais I must do as you will haue me .

Tha.

Deseruedly I loue you .

Phae. T is well done I le to the country , and there pine a lone For these two tedious dayes : I am resolued so . Thais must be obayd . You Parmeno See those brought hither straight . Par.

Yes sir .

Phae. Thais Farewell for two dayes . Tha. And you Phaedria . Command you all else ? Phae. What else should I say With this same souldier present absent be : Dayes nights thy loue , fixe thy desire on me : Thy longings , dreames , thy hopes , delights , and mind , . Fix vpon me : be all with me : in fine Be thy soule mine , as mine is truly thine . Exeunt Phaedria and Parmeno . Tha. Woes me ; perhaps he hardly credits me , But iudgeth me by other wantons trade : But I that best know my owne priuitie , Know I haue now no kinde of leazing made : And that I loue , no man more heartily Then Phaedria here : and that what I haue said Or done , is onely for to helpe the maide : I hope I haue well nigh discouered Who is her brother : a yong man well bred . He promised to visite me this day . I le get me in , and for his coming stay : Exit Thait
Act. 2.
Scen. 1. Enter Phaedria and Parmeno . Phae.

AS I late bad , see those be hither brought .

Par.

I will .

Phae.

But carefully .

Par.

It shall be done .

Phae,

And speedily .

Par.

I Warrant you .

Phae. Is this Sufficient ? Par. Good God ! What neede you aske so ? Would you could find some good commoditie , As easily as all this will bee lost . Phae. My selfe , to my selfe dearer , am lost too . Do not so thwartly intertaine the charge . Par.

No : but will see it done . Would you ought else ?

Phae. Grace this my present with what words thou canst And what thou canst , disgrace my riuall from her . Par. I had thought o' that , though you had not Mentiond it . Phae.

I le to the country , and there keepe .

Par.

I Iudge so .

Phae.

But hear'st ?

Par.

What say y' ?

Phae. Dost iudge I may fettle There to abide without returning backe , For all the time of my inioyned pennance ? Par. You ? troth I thinke not : either I imagine You le pace againe backe to her presently ; Or want o' sleepe i th i th' night will force you hither , Phae.

I le worke to wearinesse , that I may force sleepe .

Par.

Put this into your taske you le watch wearie .

Phae. A way foole , thou talk'st idlely Parmeno : I sure must weede this my effeminate minde ; My selfe Louercoker . Can I not ( If need should be ) for beare her company , Yea , for three dayes together . Par. Wonderfull ! For three whole dayes ? aduise sir what you do . Phae.

The word shall stand .

Par. Oh you good gracious gods ! Exit Phaedria . What disease call you this ? is it not strange That none should know him the same thing to be , That erst he was ? who late more stay'd then he ? More temperate ? lesse vaine ? but who comes here ? Enter Gnato with Pamphila , and a waiting wends . How ! troth us the souldiers Parasite Gnato ; who with him brings the maid along . As present vnto Thais . Oh rare sight ! Sweete countenance ! t is marle but I shall haue Course entertainement of her here to day With my decrepit Eunuch . Why her face Puts downe the Mistresse ; Thais selfe doth passe .
Scen. 2. Gna. OH you immortall gods ! how farre one man Outstrips another ? and what difference is Twixt men of braine , and fooles ? this argument Comes to my minde on this occasion . To day I met one , of my rancke and place ; No niggard pinch-gut : but one , tooke delight To hauocke out his state in daintie morsels . I note him rugged , nastie , drooping growne ; Beset with ragges and age . Why how now fellow , Say I to him , what does this dressing meane ? Marrie , saies he , poore creature hauing lost All I enioyd , see to what state I am driuen ? Acquaintance , friends , all do abandon me . Here I beganne ( measuring my owne estate ) To hold him in contempt ; and schoole him thus : What , idle drone , hast thou so fram'd thy course That no hope 's left thee ? hast thou sent thy wits After thy wealth ? doost not obserue me One of thine owne ranke and condition ? What cloathing , coulor , neatnesse , plight of body Haue I ? haue euery thing though nothing haue : And nought possessing , yet do nothing want . I but ( sighes out my fellow ) I poore caitife Cannot indure to be a ieasting stocke , Nor suffer stripes for money . What , I prithe ( Reply I ) should be gotten that way , thinkst ? Thou art cleane wide : in former times , of old , Such kind of fellowes , shifted out a liuing : This a new way of birding found by me . There are a sort of men that faine would shew To haue rare parts ; and yet are nothing so . I follow these ; to these my selfe apply ; Not to make them sporte by my foolerie , But my owne sport of them I smile on these , Withall admire their wits : what ere they please To say I do commend it : if straight way They do the very selfesame thing vnsay , I praise that too : ought say they , ought denie ? The same I say , denie for company . In fine , I on my selfe impose this law : Their humors at all hands to sooth and claw : And this is now found the most thriuing way . Par.

Troth a fine fellow : he of fooles mintes madmen .

Gna. While thus we talke , we reach to th' market place : The ioyfull Victlers haste to meete me there ; Fish-mungers , Butchers , Saulsagemakers , Cookes , And Fishermen : people to whom I had beene both beneficiall , while my state stood good ; And since t was sunke : and still aduantage them . These me salute , inuite me home to dine : Do welcome me . The Hungerstarued fellow I nam'd , seeing the accompt men made o' me , And that I far'd so well , so easily ; Humbly besought me he might learne the trade . I bade him follow that if 't may be wrought , Lake as professed Philosophers haue sought To keepe their names vp in their sectaries , According to their doctrines qualities : Epicures , Cynickes , Stoickes , Platonickes : So these my followers be stil'd Gnatonickes . Par. Do you not note what ease and trusting to Other mens roast , may worke a man to do ? Gna. Yet why thus loyter I , and not conuey This maid to Thais ; and her further pray To come to supper ? but see Parmeno The souldiers Riuals seruant , at her doore . Hee s melancholy : all 's well . Sure the folke here Are frostie witted : I am now determind . To play vpon the foole . Par. By this their guift They thinke that Thais now 's their owne cocke-sure . Gnat. Gnato does greete his chiefe friend Parmeno . With wishes of much health . What dost man ? Par.

Stand .

Gna.

I see 't , but seest ought here does trouble thee ?

Par.

Yes , thee .

Gna.

I do beleeue it ; but ought else ?

Par.

Why askst ?

Gna.

Because y' are sad .

Par.

Not I truly .

Gna.

No , be not . But what thinks thou of this maid ?

Par. Thus you now meane , that we are cashierd hence , Las , all things fusser intercourse of change . Gna. Parm'no : for these sixe whole moneths together . I le set thee at rest from trudging vp and downe Or watching to day breake : make I thee happie ? Par.

Me ? wounder sully !

Gna.

So I vse my friends .

Par.

I do commend you for it .

Gna. I detaine you : Perhaps you were to go some whither else . Par.

No whither , I .

Gna. Then I pray a little Lend me your furtherance : worke my entrance here . Par. Well sir go on . Your passage now lies faire By reason of this maid you bring with you . Gna.

Would ye haue any cald to you out of th' house ?

Exit Gnato and Pamphila . Par. Let but two dayes be passed ouer once ; And you that haue the happie readinesse With your least singer now to ope the doores , I le make you many a time hereafter knocke And kicke your heeles against 'hem to no purpose Enter Gnato . Gna. What do you still attend here Parmeno ? Pray , are you plac'd there sentinell , to watch Least any priuate messenger should runne Betweene the souldier and Thais hither . Exit Gnato againe . Par. Conceitedly ! but indeede they must be Things extraordinary , that may please Enter Chaerea . The souldier . But my Masters younger sonne I spie a coming hither : I do maruell What t is hath drawne him out of the Pyreum : For there at this time he is publique Custos . T is not for nothing . And he com's in haste : And ( why God knowes ) his eyes about doos cast .
Scen. 3. Chae. I Am vndone she 's no where to be seene : And I that lost sight of her am lost too . Where may I search ? where hunt ? whom aske ? what way Take ? I haue no direction ; but I haue this hope left Where ere she be , she cannot be long hid . Beautifull face ! hence forward I do blot Out of the table of my fantasie All other women : and do fall to loath These common beauties . Par. Marke this yonker too ? I know not what he talkes to himselfe of loue . Oh my most vnfortunate old master ! Why this is such a hotspurre , if he take To wenching once , you le thinke his brothers course meere trickes and gambads in comparison Of what his furious rage will venture on . Chae. Oh all you gods and goddesses confound That same old dotaid stay'd me on my way . Lee them plague me too , that did deigne to stay : And further would not slight him . But behold Here 's Parmeno : well met . Par. Why are you sad ? Or about what so earnest ? whither going ? Chae. Troth I not know , nor whither , nor bout what ; I am so vtterly beside my selfe . Par.

Why how comes this ?

Chae.

I am in loue man .

Par.

How ?

Chae. Now Parmeno make proofe , what dwels in thee . Thou knowst thou oftentimes hast promist me , Bidding me thinke of something I desired ; And thou wouldst shew how thou couldst pleasure me . And this thou offerdst , when I secretly Brought to the seller all our victualls to thee . Par.

Peace idlesbee

Chae. Now on my part t is found What I desire : let me thy promise find . Besides it is an action of that value , Whereon thou mayst spend thy best sweat and labor . This wench is nothing like our Citie Mammats , Whom their mothers striue to make low shoulderd ; And lace hard in , to make 'hem appeare slender ; If any grow a little fleshlier Sh 's tearm'd a champion ; straightway dieted : That be they of naturall temper ere so good , They tanner 'hem to forme of reedes or rushes : And therefore they are made much on . Par.

What on yours ?

Chae.

Face af a rare proportion .

Par.

Excellent !

Chae.

Colour her owne plumpe body ; full of mettle .

Par.

Her yeares ?

Chae.

About sixteene .

Par.

The very prime .

Chae. Procure her me by force stelth , or intreatie ; I weigh not which way , so I may ento , her . Par.

Of what condition is she ?

Chae.

Troth I know not .

Par

Of whence .

Cha

Nor that .

Par.

Where dwels she ?

Chae.

As little , that .

Par.

Where saw you her ?

Chae.

Passing along the street .

Par.

How lost ?

Chae. That was chafing with my selfe Trust now as I came hither : neither thinke Ther 's any liuing on , to whom good happes Offering well at first , do end more thwartly . Par.

What mischiefe hath falne out ?

Chae.

Oh me accurst !

Par.

Why , what 's the matter ?

Chae. Aske thou ? knowst thou not . My fathers kinsman , Archidemides ? A man much of his yeares ? Par.

What else ?

Chae. Whil'st I Follow the maiden , he comes iust vpon me . Par.

Vnseasonably o' my word .

Chae. Nay verily Vnluckely . The word vnseasonable Fits other chances better Parmeno . I may sweare safe , this sixe or seuen moneths last past , I nere happend to see the man ; But now when least I would , or had lesse neede . Seemes it not strange , how thinkst thou ? Par.

Yes , y' faith .

Chae. As distant as he was he huddled to me , Bow-bent , palsey-handed , blabber-lipt , cough-strangled : Ho , ho , stay , Chaerea ( sayes he ) Chaerea stay ; Chaerea to thee I speake : knowes thou my errand ? What is it , say I to him ? marrie — marrie — And halfe an houre after grunties to me I haue a triall to be heard to morrow — And what of that , say I ? he answers me see that thou tell thy father carefully , That he remember to be early ready To pleade my cause . This our dialogisme Tooke vp an houre of time , I askt what else ? No more sares he . I left him ; looking backward To spie the maid , she i th meane time had turnd downe this way to our street . Par. T is tenne to one But he meanes her , that was now brought to Thais . Chae.

When I come hither , she 's not to be seene .

Par.

Did any companie attend the wench ?

Chae.

Yes , a Parasite and a maid seruant .

Par.

T is she Cast of your care : all now is quiet .

Chae.

Thou talkest from the purpose .

Par.

Nay , but minde the businesse now in hand :

Chae.

Say doost know her ? or sawest her ?

Par.

Saw , know her , know where she is ?

Chae.

Oh my sweete Parmeno knowst her ?

Par.

I do know her .

Chae.

And where she is ?

Par. Here , brought to the harlot Thais , And giuen her for a gift . Chae. Who is so potent To giue such gifts ? Par. Thraso the souldier , Your brother Phaedria's riuall . Chae. Thou declar'st But a hard case my brother stands in then . Par.

Youl l say so indeede , if you had seene the present Which he prouides to send in counterpoise .

Chae.

Prithe , what is t ?

Par.

An Eunuch .

Chae. What , that driule , That filthy fellow he brought yesterday ? The old man-woman ? Par.

I , the very same .

Chae. He le be coited out o' doores with 's present . But I nere knew , this Thais was our neighbour Par.

She has not long beene .

Chae. I 'm a fellow of nothing . Strange , I should nere haue seene her ? but doost heare ? Is she so faire , as she 's reported for ? Par.

Yes fine .

Chae.

But not to be compar'd to mine ?

Par.

T is otherwise .

Chae. I prithe Parmeno Worke that I may obtaine her . Par. I le see too t : I le studie for your furtherance and helpe . Command you me ought else ? Chae.

Whether now go'st thou ?

Par. Home ; to conuey those seruants vnto Thais . As late your brother chargd me . Chae. Oh blessed Eunuch ! Who is to be there placed in that house . Par.

Wherein so blest

Chae. Wherein , demandest thou ? That euer has so faire a fellow seruant To looke on ; talke to : vnder the same roofe Be still with her ; sometimes take meales with her ? Sometimes sleepe nigh her ? Par. What if now your selfe May be made happie ? Chae.

Wherein Parmeno ?

Par. Say . Tak 's clothes Chae.

His clothes ? what thence Will follow ?

Par.

I le lead y' in 's stead .

Chae.

I note .

Par.

I le say y' are hee .

Chae.

I apprehend thee

Par. You may then enioy The benefits , which now you said he should ; be present , eate , touch , play , and lie close by her : Seeing 〈…〉 'hem do know you , what you are . Beside your face and yeares are such , you may Passe easilie for an Eunuch . Chae. Excellent . I neuer in my life heard better counsell . Let 's in ; and helpe to dresse me presently . Leade me , carrie me , with all speede thou canst . Par.

What mean'st ? troth I but feasted .

Chae.

Thou wast's time in prating .

Par. I haue cast my selfe away . What haue I done wretch ? whither thrust you me ? Will you now force me ? Sir I warne you stay . Chae.

Let 's goe .

Par.

Persist you ?

Chae.

I am fully bent too t .

Par.

Foresee , if th' course be not to hot for vs .

Chae.

T is not I warrant thee , let 's on .

Par. I , but This beane will sure be threshed on my shoulders . Oh t is a hainous practise we attempt . Chae. A hamous figge : is that a hainous practise , If I be brought in a baudie house , And there returne their owne vpon these gibets And plagues of men ? which alwayes hold om youth In such contempt , and alwayes worke our torment ? If I do now put a like tricke vpon 'hem , As we by them are still guld ? or else rather I st fit , we still take their wronges patiently ? I say t is fit I put the ieast vpon her . who 'l blame me that shall heare on 't ? euery man Will say , I fitted 'hem a peniworth Par. What meanes all this ? If you be so resolu'd You may go on . But pray you sir hereafter Lay not the fault on me . Chae.

I will not .

Par.

You Command me then ?

Chae.

Command , charge and compell .

Par. I le nere ( decline then ) your authoritie . Exeunt Parmeno and Chaerea . Follow . Chae

The powers diuine prosper our course .

Act. 3.
Scen. 1. Enter Thraso , and Gnato . Thr.

DId Thais ( saiest thou ) giue me such great thanks ?

Gna.

Huge thankes sir .

Thr.

And glad saist ? ha ?

Gna.

Not so much for the gifts worth , as that it came From you : that 's her hearts pride sir .

Enter Parmeno and keepe aloofe . Par. I come forth to see How time serues for conueiance of my present . But lo the souldier . Thr. My kinde destenie Sure of a child bestow'd this gift vpon me , That all I do becomes most acceptable . Gna.

Truly I note so much .

Thr. The King himselfe Still vsed to giue me singular great thankes For all I did ; to other men not so . Gna. The man that hath braine in him doth deriue Oft times the glorie earn'd by others sweate Vpon himselfe : a thing that 's rife in you . Thr.

Thou hast it .

Gna.

Therefore the King still wore you —

Thra.

I ,

Gna.

In his eye .

Thra. True : gaue the ouersight Of all his forces , all his plots to me . Gna.

Rare !

Thr. Then , if wearinesse at any time Of men , or tediousnesse of businesse Possest him ; when he minded to be priuate , Would — as it were — thou feelst me ? Gna. Yes when he would Vnloade his minde — as t were — of care . Thr. Yes , then He would retire with me alone to banquet . Gna.

ô strange ! you do describe a rare choise King .

Thr.

I , he 's a man of very few mens stampe .

Gna.

Rather of none's if he conuerse with you .

Thra. All men enuied me ; closely snapt at me ; I thus regard 'hem ; all ( I say ) bare me ill : But one most deadly , whom the King had made Orescer of his Indian Elephants . He at a time being ouer sawsie with me , What said I to him , take you boldnesse Strato , Because you haue command ouer the beastes ? Gna. So helpe me God , an exlent wittie iest : Oh singular ! this was a wipe vnto him . Ah! and what he ? Thr.

Strooke dumbe .

Gna.

How could he chuse ?

Par. Your faith good gods ! desperate fellow , caitife , Churchrobber . Thr. I but what thinkst thou Gnato . Of that same ieast , wherewith I girded once A youth of Rhodes being at dinner with me ? Did I nere tell 't thee ? Gna. Neuer : I pray tell it . I haue heard it told aboue a thousand times . Thr. This Rhodian I speake of , a raw young strippling Sat once at banquet with me : when by chance I had my harlot with me : This greene nouice Began to speake broad : how now impudence , Say I to him , art thou thy selfe hare-haunched And hunt'st for ven'son . Gna.

ha , ha , he .

Thra.

How is t ?

Gna. Conceited , clearely , smooth , not to be mended For Gods loue was 't your iest ? I thought it old . Thr.

Hast heard it ?

Gna. Oft , abroad it beares the bell For a prime wittie one . Thr.

T was mine .

Gna. Alas , Rash headlesse youth . Par.

Now the gods confound thee .

Gna.

For Gods sake what did he ?

Thr. Blasted . All there Were readie euery man to burst with laughter : And in conclusion all gan now feare me . Gna.

I could not blame 'hem .

Thr. But doost heare wert Best I cleard my selfe to Thais , of this maid : For that she stands in iealousie I loue her ? Gna.

At no hand : rather striue to increase her doubt .

Thr.

Why ?

Gna. Aske you ? find you not , if any time She do commend or mention Phaedria , How it does vex you ? Thr.

Yes .

Gna. To preuent that This is your onely remedie . When she Names Phaedria to you , do you presently Name Pamphila : if she at any time Say , let vs haue home Phaedria to banquet , Reply you , call in Pamphila to sing : In fine , giue like for like , to nettle her Thr.

I , if she lou'd me , this might further Gnato .

Gna. Seing she expects and loues what you do giue her , She long since loueth you ; you haue long since Easily got the starte how you may grieue her . Shee l alwayes stand in aw , least any time Vpon offence tane you l bestow elsewhere That benefit , she now doos reape from you Thr.

T is right thou saist . Strange , 't came not to my Minde ?

Gna. That is a ieast indeed ; because you bent not Your mind out or else Thraso what rare straine Had it produc'd , if minted in your braine . Enter Thais and Pythias her maid , with other wenches attending .
Scen. 2. Tha. ME thought , I ene now heard the souldiers tongue See where he is : Thraso my friend , well met . Thr. Oh my deare Thais , my delight , how doost thou ? Do you a little loue me for your Ministrell ? Par. What a sweete proper handsell has he giu'n her At the first onset . Tha.

Much for your deseruing :

Gna.

Then let 's to supper . Why here stay you ?

Par. Marke tother Wiseacre too . A man may iudge He was of a mans getting . Tha. When you please , I am in readinesse . Par. I le go toward 'hem , And make as if I now but new came forth . Are you to go foorth any whither Thais ? Par. ô Parmeno , well done : yes indeede to day . I am to go abroad . Par.

Pray whither ?

Tha. Seest thou not The man There ? Par. Yes , withall his presence irkes me . Those presents from my Master Phaedria Are ready when you please . Thr. What stay we for ? Why yet not hence ? Par. Pray sir grant truce a while , I may surrender vp some trifling presents , I also may Imparle and treate with her . Thr. Some goodly present Sure : nothing like mine . Par. The matter selfe will Shew that . Ho there , bid those two I gaue in charge , Come quickly forth . Enter Blackemore Wench and Eunuch . Come you here forward . This same wench was brought From Aethiopia . Thr.

Some three halfe penie purchase ,

Gna.

Scarce that .

Par. Where are you Dorus . Come you hither . Here is an Eunuch for you : marke How sweete fac't , of what a blooming age . Tha. Now As God helpe me a handsome youth . Par. What say You to him Gnato ? What fault findest thou ? or what Obiects thou Thraso ? husht both : sufficient Commendation . Prooue him in learning , song or Wrestling : such knowledge fitteth free-horne youth to Haue , I le make it cleare appeare he 's perfect in . Thr.

For neede , vnwarm'd with wine I could that Eunuch

Par. And he that sends you these , doos not require That you should onely liue to pleasure him ; For his sake , barre all else your company ; Nor bragges his battailes , nor shews forth his scarres ; Nor stands betwixt you and your benefit As one doos , I could name : but at such times When he may be iniurious to none , Your selfe dispos'd , and time conuenient ; If then admitted , he rest's satisfied . Thr.

This shews he serues some poore & forlorne Master .

Gna. For no man sure that could procure another Would indure this . Par. Sirra . , hold thou thy peace , Whom I do iudge vnder all names of basenesse : For thou that fram'st thy selfe to claw that thing , I thinkst mayest feede on fire . Thr.

Do we yet go ?

Tha. I le haue but in these first ; and leaue some charge Among my seruants , what I would haue done ; And come out to you streight . Thr.

I le depart hence .

Exit Thais with the Eunuch and blackmore Gnato do you stay for her . Par. I , for it fits not A generall walke with 's mistresse in the streetes . Thr. What should I vse a manie words to thee ? Exit Parmeno Thou art much like thy Master . Gna.

Ha , Ha , he .

Thr.

What is t thou laughst at ?

Gna. That which now you said , And the other ieast broke on the Rhodian Enter Thais Came to my mind : But Thais is come foorth . Thr.

Runne you before and get at home all readie .

Gna.

Content .

Tha. You Pythias haue a speciall care , Exit Gnato . If Chremes chance to call here , you intreate him To stay ; if that he cannot fitly do , That he would come againe some other time : If neither that he can , bring him to me . Pyt.

I will forsooth .

Tha. But what , what was it else I was about to say ? Oh , haue a care Vnto the maiden , see you ? and keepe home . Exit Pytheas into her Mistresses house . Thr.

Let 's go .

Tha.

Wenches attend and follow me .

Exeunt Thraso , Thais and her traine .
Scen. 3. Enter Chremes . Chr. The more I do reuolue things in my minde Still the more likely arguments , find That Thais here aimes some shrewd tricke against me ; I see she workes on me so cunningly . When first she sent for me ( if any one should then haue askt me the occasion Of businesse twixt vs twaine , I knew nothing To Answer ) being come , with hammerit She fashiond out pretences of my staye , She had performd religious rites that day Vnto the gods , and would communicate A Weightie secret to me : ( I then straight Grew iealous , all this was some cunning straine , She fits downe by me ; cause of talke doth frame I seeming cold , her speech to this point came , How long 't was since my Parents had beene dead Long since I told her : then she questioned If I had land at Sunium ? and how farre It lay from sea ? this ( I thinke ) liketh her : She hopes to worke it from me . at the last She drew to this , if I had no young sister From that place stolne a many yeares now past ? Who then was with her at the time we mist her ? What things she had about her ? or if any Could know her ? why should she these questions moue vnlesse ( as is the impudence of many ) She faine her selfe would that my sister prooue , Of old so young hence lost ? should she suruiue , Her yeares at most reach not aboue sixteene ; Thais is elder then my selfe , I weene . She crau'd me againe come to her : let her driue The matter , and her business to some head ; Or leaue this sending : i le not be troubled , To listen her third errand . Ho , within — Enter Pythias to her Misteresses doore . Pyth.

Who 's that ?

Chr.

One Chremes .

Pyth.

Oh fine little pleasant pace .

Chr.

I still affirme , I am laid for to be catcht .

Pyth. Thais did earnestly request you would Returne to morrow . Chr.

I go into the Country .

Pyth.

Pray y'

Chr.

I say I cannot .

Pyth. Then remaine here A while till she come backe . Chr.

No by no meanes .

Pyth.

Why my kind Chremes ?

Chr.

Hence you harlotrie

Pyth. If such be your determination , I pray step ouer to her where she is . Chre.

I care not if I do .

Pyth. Darias go straight And leadeth is gentleman to his souldiers . Pythias returnes into her Mistresses house . Dorias enters and go away with Chremes .
Scen. 4. Enter Antipho . Ant. SOme youthes of vs agreed on yesterday A feast in Comon mongst vs : Chaerea We made our Steward , rings were giuen , time , place Set downe ; time 's past , where it appointed was Nothing is ready , he not to be seene , I know not what to say out , what to weene . Now all the rest haue laid the taske on me To seeke him ; therefore now I le first go see If he be gotten home . But who is that Comes out of Thais house ? is 't he or not ? Enter Char. in the Eunuches cloathes ! T is he . What creature 's he become ? what meanes This his attire ? what euill bodes his staring ? I cannot enough wonder , or coniecture . But what so ere it be , I le aloofe stand ; And angle for the secret now in hand .
Scen. 5. Chae. IS none about the doores ? Not one . Doos none come yet behind me neither ? No not one . May I not now at pleasure vent my ioy ? Oh Iupiter ! now truly is the time I easilie could brooke to part with life : Least some insuing wretchednesse thereof Should hap to soure my present happinesse . No curious inquisitor now meete me ? That vp and downe would hant me , wearie me , Kill me with tedious questions , why I skippe thus ? Why am so iocund ? Whither I am going ? Or whence do come ? in what place got these clothes ? What is my ayme ? whither I me mad or sober ? Ant. I le to him , and obtaine the thankes of him He so desires to part with . Chaerea , Why in such rapture man ! whence this attire ? Why art so pleasant ? or what aymst thou at ? Art in thy wits ? Why starest thou so vpon me ? Why speak'st not ? Chae. Oh happie day ? ô friend well met . There 's no man liuing , I would rather see At this time then thy selfe . Ant. I prithee , say What is the matter ! Chae. Nay truly I pray thee Giue me the hearing . Know'st thou not her here My brother is in loue withall ? Ant. Yes Thais : As I do guesse . Chae.

The same .

Ant.

So I remember .

Chae. A certaine maid was giuen her to day . What neede I blazon or set out to thee This maidens matchelesse beautie , Anripho ? Thou knowest me choise in such disciphering . She did inflame my heart . Ant.

What saist ?

Chae. thou 'lt say She from the whole sex beares the Bell away , If euer thou shalt see her . What neede words ? I gan to loue her : by good chance there was At home an Eunuch which my brother had bought for this Thais , not then sent to her . Here our man Parmeno an odde inckling gaue me Of a deuice , which quickly I laid hold on . Ant.

What

Chae. If you would silent keepe , you would Know sooner . First to change cloathes with him , then cause my selfe To be conueyed for him . Ant.

What for the Eunuch ?

Chae.

Yes .

Ant.

What aduantage should you winne thereby ?

Chae. Mak'st then a question ? I should see , should heare , Should be with her I loued , Antipho . Was it a slight cause , or a trifling reason ? I was brought to her ; when she had receiued me She gladly led me home : commits the maid — Ant.

To whom ? To thee ?

Chae.

To me .

Ant.

a fine safeguard .

Chae. She chargeth me that no man come to her ; Commands me further , I not start from her ; But that alone I keepe with her alone , In a close chamber : I say , yes forsooth ; Vpon the ground looking demurely . Ant.

Gaitise .

Chae. I am to go now foorth ( saies she ) to banquet , And with her leades along her maiden seruants ; ( A few young nouice wenches left behind To attend vpon the maid ) these presently Prepare for her to Bathe . I wish them haste While they make things in readinesse , the maid Sits in a closet , looking on a table : Wherein was painted , how that Iupiter Once ray'nd in Danaes lappe a golden showie . I look'd vpon the piece too : and because He had in former times plaid the like prankt , My spirits were the more incouraged : In that a God had taken human shape , And in gold dew dropping himselfe through tiles Had closely , finely , wantond with his lemman And which o' th' Gods had done 't ? matie the same Who shakes with thunder heauens high arched frame Should I wormeling ( then ) make scruple of it ? I did not , but imbrac'd it willingly . When this I cast in mind , the maid meane while Is cal'd for in , to wash : goes , bathes , returnes ; And afterward they lay her in her bed : I waiting stand if they 'ld bid me do ought . One comes to me , and sayes , you sirra Dorus Take you this fanne ; and thus fanne wind vpon her : When we haue washt , you ( if you will ) wash too . I take it with sad countenance . Ant. At that time I would ha' seene that bashfull face of thine How thou great Asse didst stand holding a fanne Chae She had scarse spoken it , when all together Hurring out of the roome , depart to Bathe ; And make such noise , as seruants commonly Are went to do , when Masters are from home Meane while a slumber seases on the maide . I priuily ( thus ) on the fannes side do leere , And looke about too , if all else be cleare : I saw all safe , and hoited fast the doore . Ant.

What then ?

Chae.

What then foole ?

Ant.

I confesse it .

Chae. Should I let slippe such opportunitie , So profferd , short , wish'd and not hoped for ? I had beene then indeed such as I shewd for . Ant. T is true thou sayest . But in the meane while what 's done Cconcerning our repast ? Chae

why all is readie .

Ant.

Thou art carefull : where ? at your house ?

Chae. No at Discus Our free-mans . Ant. T is farre hence , let 's make more haste Go shift your cloathes . Chae. Where should I go to shift ? I me lost ; from whom I stand as banished ; I doubt my brother may be now within : Feare also , least my father be returnd Out of the countrey . Ant. Go we to our house , That 's the next place , where you may shift your selfe . Chae. The aduise is good , le ts go : withall I minde To take thy counsell , how I may my loue Further enioy . Ant.

Content , our wits will prooue .

Exeunt Chae . and Antipho .
Act. 4.
Scen. 1. Enter Dorias . Dor. SO help me God , I somewhat doubt poore creature By things I saw , least the inraged souldier Should raise some broile ; and do my Mistresse wrong . For presently as soone as Chremes came The late giu'n young maides brother ; she requests The souldier , he would cause him be cald in : He grew in sume , but yet durst not deny her . Shee further moues his inuitation Vnto their banquet : ( this my Mistresse did To keepe him there ; because as yet the time Seru'd not to tell him things concern'd his sister . The souldier willd him sit ; yet grumblingly . He plac'd , my mistresse frames discourse to him : The souldier thought a riuall had beene brought Vnder his nose , and minding to crie quittance Cal'd out , ho , one of you fetch Pamphila To sing to vs ; Thais cryes out , at no hand : What her to a banquet ? He would haue it so . Hence grew the matter to a downe right braule : My mistresse priuily tooke of her iewels , And gaue 'hem me in secret to bring thence . This is a certaine signe , whereby I know Shee 'l slip thence , when she spies fit time thereto Manet Dorias .
Scen. 2. Enter Phadria . Phae. AS I vpon my iourney passing was , A thronging troupe of busie thoughts do presse Into my mind ; as ought it comes to passe To men whose soules some trouble seised has : And euery thing in the worse sence I guesse . What neede much talke ? while these dumpes me possesse Vnheeded I was pass'd the towne I ment to , And was gonne farre beyond it ; when at last Perceauing it I backe returned fast : And being scarce come vnto the torne which went to The towne , there staid ; and in my minde thus cast , Two whole dayes must I this place be pent to Alone without her ? Why is that such a matter ? T is nothing : Nothing ? What , if not come at her To touch her ? must I yet be barr'd her sight ? If that be cross'd , is this to be lost quite ? To climbe the lowest , first step of loues lather Were somewhat yet . But why in such affright Enter Pythias . Comes Pythias foorth ? and why so hastily ? Manet Phaedria .
Scen. 3. Pyth. WRetch that I am , wher shal I find this fellow ? Where this vngodly wicked fellow find ? That he should dare attempt a piece of worke So monstrous , so audacious ! Phae I am lost , And doubt what this may meane . Pyth. Besides , yet further The vilaine not alone defil'd the maid ; But rent the poore soules linnen , tore her haire . Phae.

How 's this ?

Pyth. Whom if I now could light vpon , How I would flie vpon th' eyes o' th' witch ? Phae. I cannot guesse what coile hath here befalne Since my departure . I le go to her . How now ? What is the matter ? why such haste ? Who is it Pythias , thou lookst for thus . Pyth. Oh Phaedria , Whom seeke I ? Sir I pray you get you hence Where you deserue , with your conceited presents . Phae.

What may this meane ?

Pyth. Aske you ? what fine Eunuch Was that you sent ? what stirre hath he here made vs ? H' has rauisht the young maide , the souldier Bestowed vpon my Mistresse . Phae.

Ha! what this ?

Pyth.

I am vndone .

Phae.

Thou art drunke .

Pyth. I would To God that all that hate me , were as drunke as I am . Dorias . For Gods loue Pythias what strange happe was this ? Phae.

Th' art mad . How could an Eunuch do such things ?

Pyth. I know not what he was , but what h' has done The case it selfe doth shew . The wench she weepes . And when one askes her , dare not vtter why . The honest fellow too 's not to be found . Beside I feare , hee 's runne away with somewhat . Phae. You make me wonder , where the lazie bones Should haue conueid himselfe : vnlesse perhaps He be retir'd backe to our house againe . Pyth.

Pray , see if he be there .

Phae.

You shall know straight .

Dorias . I am to seeke , good God sweete Pythias I haue not heard so strange and accident . Pyth. Yes , I had heard that they loued woman Deerely , but could do nothing . And forgetfull beast I neuer thought on t : else I had mewd him vp , And nere h' trusted her vnto his keeping .
Scen. 4. Enter Phaedria haling out of doores Dorus the Eunuch in Chaereas apparell . Phae. COme out o'doores mischieuos roague ; come out . what draw you backward ? come foorth runaway Ill purchased commoditie come foorth . Dorus.

For Gods sake sir .

Phae. Marke how the Hangman Wries his choppes a'toneside ? sirra , what 's the scope Of this your coming backe ? the misterie Of this your changing cloathes ? your answer sirrha ? If I had stay'd nere so little Pithias , I had not found him there : he had prepar'd Readie for packing . Pyth.

Haue you got him then ?

Phae.

Got him ? what else ?

Pyth.

Vpon my faith that 's well .

Doras.

I troth that 's passing well .

Pyth. Where is he ? Phae askest ? Seest him not ? Pyth.

See pray ? whom ?

Phae.

Why this .

Pyth.

Wha't 's he ?

Phae.

He that this day was brought you .

Pyth. None of vs Ere saw this fellow , till now Phadria . Phae.

Nere saw ?

Pyth. for Gods loue . ( Phaedria ) did you Thinke , That this was brought . Phae.

Yes for I had no other .

Pyth. Fie , there 's betweene 'hem no comparison . That was a faire and comely vizadgd youth . Phae. You thought so then cause he had other cloathes on : Those off , you thinke him now ill fauored . Pyth. Au ! pray sir cease : as if the difference . Were small betweene 'hem ? here to day was brought ( Phaedria ) a youth you would ha' longed to looke on : This an old , creping , dreaming , dropsie , dotard ; Complexiond like a Weazell . Phae. How , how this ? Chrochets ? you make me scarce know what I do . Sirrha come neare me did not I buy you ? Dorus.

Yes forsooth .

Pyth.

Now command him answer me .

Phae. Put foorth your question . Pyth. cam'st thou here to day ? You see he does denie it : but the other Came to vs , hither brought by Parmeno , Some sixteene yeares of age . Phae. Resolue me this ; First , by what meanes got you the cloathes you weare ? Silent ? monster of men , speakst not ? Dorus . Chaerea Came home . Pyth.

My brother ?

Dorus.

Yes .

Phae.

When ?

Dor.

But this day .

Phae.

How long since ?

Dorus.

Euen now .

Phae And Who was with him ? Dorus.

Parmeno

Phae.

Hadst thou euer before seene him ?

Dorus.

No , nor yet ere before had heard him named .

Phae. How then didst know him to haue bin my brother Dorus . Parmeno said so . He gaue me these cloathes . Phae.

I me lost .

Dorus. himselfe withall straight put on Mine . Pyth. You thinke me now not drunke ; nor that I haue li'd . T is now most cleare the poore Wench is deflour'd . Phae.

Fie beast , beleeu'st him ?

Pyth. What neede I Beleeue him ? The matter selfe proclaimes it . Phae. sirrha you , Come hither ( here you ) yet a little nearer : So , T is well . Tell me againe , did Chaerea Take your cloathes . Dorus.

Yes .

Phae.

And put 'hem on himselfe ?

Dorus.

Yes

Phae.

And was brought for you to Thais ?

Dorus.

Yes sir .

Phae.

Great Iupiter ! oh wicked shamelesse fellow

Pyth.

Woes me ; you scarce beleeue yet we are abu'sd .

Phae. T is marle now , but thou credit 's what he saies ? I me at my wits end — Sirrha doost thou heare ? ( Deni 't being askd againe ) can I no way Worke a truth from thee ? ha ? didst see my brother ? Dorus.

Not I intruth .

Phae. No truth , I see , vnforc'd Can be got from him . Come , come in with me . Now say things straight denie 'hem ? ( begge of me . ) Dorus.

For Gods sake sit

Phae. Will you get in ? Dorus Hoy hey . Phae I know no meanes else how to shift away . I stand in a faire case , if such a knaue As thou , may thus befoole me at his pleasure . ( Exit . Phaedria and Dorus . Pyth. I know sure as I lieue , 't was Parmeno . Complotted this . Dorias .

Yes doubtlesse .

Pyth Ere I sleepe I le find a meane how to crie quittance with him . But what thinkest best we should do , Dorias ? Dorias .

Touching the wench d' ye meane .

Pyth. Yes , it't be best To vtter or conceal 't . Dorias If you be wise , Know ought , know nought , touching the Eunuch selfe , Or her abuse : so shall you keepe from blame ; And do her a good turne . You may say onely , Dorus is runne away . Pyth.

I le eene do so .

Enter Chremes . Dorus. But see I not Chremes vonder ? Thais straight Will be here with vs . Pyth.

Wherefore thinke you so ?

Dorias .

Because when I came thence , they grew to brall .

Pyth.

Beare in the iewels : I le of him learne all .

Exit Dorias . Chr. I , I , assure as heauen , I was but plaid on . The wine ore wrought me : yet while I was sitting Me thought I was excedingly well temperd , but rising found both feete and braines to saile Pyth. Chremes . Chr. Who 's that ? Oh Pythias how much Fairer Now seemst thou then erewhile . Pyth. You in good sooth Are pleasanter by faire . Chr. T is true and old , Spare wine and dainties , sportfull lusts growes cold . I st long , since Thais came ? Pyth. Hath she alreadie Then left the souldier ? Chr. oh yes long age . And there has beene great falling out betweene 'hem . Pyth.

Did she say nothing , you should follow her ?

Chr.

Nothing , but at her parting winkd on me .

Pyth.

What , was not that sufficient Item man .

Chr. I knew not that the meant so much , but that The souldier helpd my dull conceiuing her ; Enter Thais . For out o'doores he thrust me : see where she is I maruell where it was , I ouer went her .
Scen. 6. Thais I guesse he will be here straight , with intent To take her from me ; let him come on then : But if he laie on little singer on her , I le claw his eyes out . I can so farre beare His fopperies , and swolne bumbasted words Whil'st that they be but words : come they to deedes once , I le ferrit him . Chr.

I was here long since Thais .

Thais . Oh Chremes , I lookd for you . Know you not That all this brabble hath beene about you ? Chr.

Me ? how ? as if I broacht it ?

Tha. Yes because While I do seeke to render to your hands Your long lost sister , this insued thereon . Chr.

Where 's that my sister ?

Tha.

Here at home with me .

Chr.

Ha!

Tha. Why what s the matter ? Shee' has been Brought vp As fits her selfe and you . Chr.

What is t you say ?

Thais . That which is truth : freely giue her you . Demanding nothing at your hands for her . Chr. I giue and owe you Thais many thankes As you haue well deserued . Tha. But beware Chremes , you lose her not , ere you receiue her : For this is she the souldier comes to get By maine force from me . Pythias get you in , And fetch the little cofer with the tokens : Chr.

Do you see him comming Thais ?

Pyth. Mistresse Where is it ? Tha.

i th' leatherne hamper : Makst thou no more haste queane ?

Chr.

What forces dooes he bring with him ? oh me .

Exit Pythias . Tha.

Are you afraid friend ?

Chr A way , I afraid ? No man a liue lesse . Tha.

I t is fit you be not .

Chr.

T'sh , I do doubt what man you take me for .

Tha. No , but consider , he you are to deale with Is a meere stranger , of lesse meanes , lesse knowne , Lesse friended here then you . Chr. All this I know : But yet t is follie to admit an euill Which may be well preuented . I had rather , We seeke aforehand to preuent a wrong , Then to returne a suffered iniurie . Do you get in ; and then make fast your doores ; Whilst I haste ouer to the market place . I will haue some assistants by , i th' tumult . Tha.

Stay .

Chr.

T is the safest course .

Tha.

Pray stay .

Chr. Pray leaue . I le be here straight againe . Tha. Chremes this needes not , Acquaint him onely that she is your sister , Enter Pythias with a Coffer . Which you a small girle lost ; and now do know her : Shew him the prouing tokens . Pyth.

Here they are .

Tha. Here take 'hem , if he offer violence , Summon him to the law : conceaue you me ? Chr.

Yes very well .

Tha.

See you vtter it with courage .

Chr.

I warrant you .

Tha. Pull vp your cloke there , to you . I me in a faire case : why , this man I make My Champion , needes another him to backe .
Scen. 7. Enter Traso , Gnato , Sanga , with three others . Thra. BRooke such a base affront ? I le die first , Gnato . Simatio , Donax , and Syriscus follow : The house I le first dismantle — Gna.

Aright course .

Thra.

Take thence the maid my hostage —

Gna.

Very Good .

Thra.

Make Thais feele my vengeance —

Gna.

Excellent .

Thra. Donax come you here hither with your leauer , Into the heart of my battalion : Simatio fall you there on the left winge . Wheele you about Syriscus to the right . Draw out some more : where 's Sanga the Centurion With 's band of the blacke guard . Sang.

Here readie Captaine .

Thra. Where are thy armes drone ? wilt thou enter fight With thy moppe there ? that thou hast brought it hither ? Sang. sir I but know the courage of my Chieftaine , Or souldiers furie , that the day would cost Much bloud shed , brought it here to cleanse the gore . Thra.

Where are the rest there ?

San. what ( a murraine ) rest ? Samnio alone keeps home , to looke to th' house . Thra.

Do you rancke these ; I le march behind the Van .

Gna. Note sirs his wisedome ! hauing rank'd the rest , Himselfe retireth to safe place for shelter . Thr.

'T was Pyrthus vsuall practise .

Chr. Thais , see you What he intends ? that sure 's the safest way , To locke vp doores . Tha. This fellow ( I assure thee ) Thou deem'st a man of spirit is a gull ; A pure great goosecappe : nere make doubt of him . Thra.

What thinks thou Gnato .

Gna. I could wish you had A sling stone here , to gall 'hem a loose off : They 'ld straight forsake their Castle . Thra But I see Thais her selfe . Gna.

Let 's straight rush in vpon them .

Thra. Forbeare : A discreete generall should cast To winne his aymes by treatie , ere he put The hazard vnto battell . How doost know But she may do my biddings , vncompell'd ? Gna. Oh you good Gods ! what t is to be distreeter I nere come to you , but I do depart Much betterd in my iudgement . Thra. Thais , first Answer me this , when I bestowd on you , The maid , assure you not your companie To me for certaine dayes . Tha.

Well , what o' that ?

Thra. Askest thou what ? that broughst before mine eyes Thy louer ? ( what hast thou to do with him ? ) And with him sneak'st from me ? Tha.

It was my pleasure .

Thra. Restore now therefore Pamphila , vnlesse You 'l haue me force her from you . Chr. How , to thee Restore her ? or dar'st thou lay hands on her ? Thou ? of all — Gna. Haue care good sir , you know not What kinde of man you speake so grossely to . Chr. Will you get hence ? know you how stands your case ? If you disturbe vs here , I le giue you cause To thinke vpon this time , this place , and me : Whil'st you haue day to liue ; Gna. I pittie you , That seeke to make so great a man your soe . Chr.

I le cracke your crowne sir if you get not hence .

Gna.

How whelpe , what saist ?

Thr. Why what art thou ? What mean'st ? What bus'nesse hast thou with her ? Chr. Thou shalt know First I affirme the maiden is free borne . Thr.

How ?

Chr.

Free of Athens .

Thra.

Hoida !

Chr. And my sister . I therefore now forwarne thee souldier , Thou vse no force against her . Thais , He go And fetch her Nurse Sophrona hither straight ; And shew her these remembrances . Thra. Doost thou Forewarne me that I should not touch my owne ? Chr.

I say I do forewarne thee .

Gna. Here you sir , You haue good action of deceit against him . Chr.

Said I enough ?

Thra.

Say you so Thais too ?

Exit Chremes . Tha.

Seeke one to answer .

Thra. What 's our course Now Gnato ? Exit Thais . Gna. Why let 's retreat : shee l straight come after you , Crouching and kneeling . Thra.

Thinkst so ?

Gna. Nay That 's sure . I am acquainted with these womens humors : Sue , they are squeamish ; if you keepe off , they sue . Thra.

Thou deem'st aright .

Gna. Shall I dismisse the Armie ? Thra.

I , when thou please .

Gna. Sanga , as fits good souldiers , Cast now your eyes backe on the household chimnels Sang.

My minde was long ago among the platters

Gna.

Th' art carefull ,

Thra.

All follow me this way in .

Exeunt all .
Act. 5.
Scen. 1. Enter Thais and Pythias . Tha. COntinuest drabbe to talke in riddles to me ? I know , I know not , heard so , he is gone , I was not by — . Wilt thou not in plaine tearmes Tell me the matter ? the maides cloathes are torne , She weepes and silent keepes , the Eunuch gon . Why this ? what 's chanc'd ? speakest not ? Pyth. Woes mee Poore soule ! What should I say ? they say he was no Eunuch . Tha.

who then ?

Pyth.

This Chaerea here .

Tha.

which Chaerea ?

Pyth.

This younger brother vnto Phaedria .

Tha.

What saist witch ?

Pyth.

I haue found it certaine so .

Tha. Why what a gods name had he here to do ? Or why was hither brought ? Pyth. I cannot tell , But that I guesse he loued Pamphila . Tha. I find my selfe accursed wretch vndone , If this be true thou vtterst . I st for that , The wench so weepes ? Pyth.

I thinke so .

Tha. Thinkst so hegge ? Was this the charge I left you at my parting ? Pyth. What should I do ? I left ' him both alone As you did bidde . Tha. Vnluckie queane , thou left 's A lambe to the woolfe : oh I am asham'd , Enter Chaerea in the Eunuchs cloathes . So to be plaid on . What man haue we here ? Pyth. Mistresse , for Gods loue peace ; we are well W' haue caught The man . Tha.

Where is he ?

Pyth. Looke to your left hand . Do you not see him ? Tha.

Yes .

Pyth. Call out for helpe ; To lay hold on him with all speede you can . Tha.

What shall 's do with him foole ?

Pyth. What do , D' you aske ? Pray marke if when you wistlie eye the fellow , Has not a a shamelesse leere ? Tha.

No , has he not .

Pyth.

Note with what confidence my man struts too .

Scen. 2. Chae. AS I but now to Antiphoes did come , His father and his mother were at home ; As if 't had beene so plotted so that in I could not enter butt I must be seene . Whil'st here about the doore a while I stay , One that I knew came but into my way : I him espying hastily betooke Me to my heeles ; and fled into a nooke Was vnfrequented : so from place to place Posted , till I to death nigh wearied was : And this I did , least any should me know . But is not this Thais , I see ? t is she : I sticke i th' mire ; nor know I what to do . But what care I ? what dare she do to me ? Tha. Let 's to him . O , you are well met honest Dorus . Tell me , didst runne away ? Chae.

Mistresse I did .

Tha.

And was it well done , thinkst thou ?

Chae.

no forsooth .

Tha.

Thinkst to go with 't scot free so away ?

Chae. Forgiue me but this one fault , if I euer Commit the like againe , then kill me for 't . Tha.

Didst feare my curstnesse ?

Chae.

No .

Tha.

What Feardst thou then ?

Chae.

I feard your maid here would tell tales of me .

Tha.

What hadst thou done ?

Chae.

A trifle .

Pyth. Impudence A trifle ? is 't a trifle in thine eye To take a freeborne maid , and rauish her ? Chae.

I tooke her for my fellow seruant .

Pyth. Fellow ? I scarce can hold my singers from his eares . Monster art come againe , to flout vs too ? Tha.

Get you hence Bedlam .

Pyth. Pray forsooth , why so ? I thinke I ow't the gallowes , if I do As I do threaten ; and the rather too , Because he does confesse he 's slaue to you . Tha.

No more of this . Chaerea , you haue committed

An act faire vnbeseeming that faire port Your selfe and friends here beare ; say the scorne fitted And to my course of life did rustly sorte : Yet for your owne worth you should haue forborne . Nor truely know I now what course to frame Touching the maid ; you haue disorderd so All my proceedings , I cannot returne Her to her friends , as I desird the same ; And as was fitting for the maid to goe : So that both maid and friends I might haue made Beholding to me , by the course I laid . Chae. Thais , but now I hope hencefoorth will grow Fast loue betweene vs : oftentimes you know From bad beginnings , slight occasion , Great loue hath had its deriuation . What , if some higher powers did thus decree ? Tha. In such sense I do take it verily ; And so do wish 't . Chae. Pray one thing reckon right No purposd scorne , but loues imperiall mihght Then swayd my passions . Tha. I beleeue 't was so ; And truly therefore pardon you the rather : I am not ( Chaerea ) of such stubborne nature , Nor so vnskild as loues power not to know . Chae. So helpe me God as I now grow in loue With you to Thais . Pyth. Then mistresse I perceaue You ought to watch him . Chae.

O , I dare not prooue .

Pyth.

Introth le trust thee for iust nothing .

Tha.

Leaue .

Chae. Thais , I do commend , commit my selfe To your protection ; begge your helpe herein ; Desire , beseech you 'l stand my Patronesse . I cannot liue if I not marrie her . Tha.

But if your father —

Chae Tsh , what ? I know he will — So she be knowne freeborne . Chae. If you please stay A little , the maides brother will be here ; He went to call the nurse that nur'st her young : You may be by at her acknowledging . Chae.

Yes , I will stay .

Tha. And in the meane time will You . ( Till he do come ) we go into my house ? T is better then at doore here waiting stand . Cha.

With all my heart .

Pyth.

Pray what d' ye meane to do ?

Tha.

In what ?

Pyth. D' you aske ? meane you for all this yet To let him come againe into the house ? Tha.

Why not ?

Pyth. Take my word for 't , h 'le aduenture Some second battrie . Tha.

Prithee hold' thy chat .

Pyth.

Ha' you not had sufficient triall of him ?

Chae.

I will not , Pythias .

Pyth. I le not trust you , Chaerea . Vnlesse you be kept out . Chae. But ( Pythias ) Thy selfe shalt be my keeper Pyth. Troth not I : I le neither trust thee with the custodie Of any thing , not keepe thee yet my selfe . Enter Chremes and Sophrona , So get you hence . Tha.

Her brother 's fitly come .

Chae. I 'm lost , pray let vs in , I would not ( Thais ) He see me in this habite in the streete . Tha.

Why , art asham'd ?

Chae.

Yes truth .

Pyth. Yes truth ? alacke ! A maiden batchelor I warrant you . Tha. Go in before , I follow . Pythias Tarrte you here , to bring in Chremes with you . Exeunt Chaerea and Thais .
Scen. 3. Pyth. WHat , can I thinke of no plot , no deuice , No tricke to erie quittance with this rascall ? That foisted in this counterfeit among vs ? Chae.

Pray moue your ioynts a little nimbler ruise .

Soph.

I mone sir .

Chae.

I , I see 't ; but nothing forward .

Pyth.

Haue you yet shewn the tokens to her sir ?

Chae.

Yes , all .

Pyth.

What sayes she , pray ? remembers them ?

Chae.

Yes perfectly .

Pyth. In troth you bring good newes , For I do wish the maid well . Pray go in ; Exit Chremes and Sophrona My mistresse long since did expect your comming . Enter Parmeno . But see the honest fellow Parmeno , I thinke I haue found a tricke to nettle him , As I would wish . I le first go in and heare The maides acknowledgement ; and againe come foorth To fright the rogue with a fine pennie worth . Exit Pythias .
Scen. 4. Par. I Now scout out , to see what Chaerea has done : Who if he haue the businesse cleanely handled , Good gods ! What glorious palme haue I then wonne ? For to omit , that I a cafeintangled Haue wound out fairely to his hand ; haue wrought , Haue compassed his loue , his wench , a maid He so did dote on : and yet cost him nought , ( No purse expence , no trouble , hazard made ; ) And from a greedie harlot . Then agen Enter Pythias . ( Which I indeed accompt my Masters prise ) That I haue found him out a readie meane , To learne these strumpets manners and full guise : Which ripely vnderstood , he may for euer Detest their courses : when abroad they git , None are more neate and sweete in their behauiour , They mince and picke vpon each daintie bit ; ( With their friend eating such is their demeanor . ) And then to note their greedie rauening , Their sluttishnesse , their penurie at home ; What nastie Cormorants they are alone ; Out of stale porrage musty bread deuouring : These things are youths true cordialls being knowne .
Scen. 5. Pyth. ROague for thy deeds & words I le plague thee so . Thou shalt not for our wrongs hece scot-free go . Your mercie oh good gods ' oh cruell practise ! Alas poore youth ! but ô that cursed vilaine ! That vilaine Parmeno , that brought him hither ! Par.

What may the matter be ?

Pyth. It pitties me ; Therefore I hasted out o' doores , poore woman : Because I would not see 't . Oh , what example ( Say the ) they do intend to make of him ? Par. ô God! What strange stirre 's this ? am not I lost , trow ? I le to her . What meanes this flight , Pythias ? Pyth. Doost aske audacious fellow ? whilst thou soughtst To put a tricke vpon vs , th' hast vndone , Hast vterly vndone that prettie youth , Thou broughtest vs for an Eunuch . Par.

why , what 's chanc'd ?

Pyth. Doost know the maid was sent vs is free borne ? And has a brother here of great accompt ? Par.

I know 't not .

Pyth. But she 's prou'd so : this poore youth Has rauisht her ; which when her brother heard of . Comming in furious heate — Par.

What did he do ?

Pyth.

First piteously has bound him .

Par.

Ha , has Bound him ?

Pyth.

I , although Thais beggd the contrarie .

Par.

What sayst

Pyth. And now he further threatneth To vse him in such sort , as is the wont To be perform'd vpon adulterers . Par. Vpon what confidence dare he venture So heynous an attempt ? Pyth.

Why , is 't so heynous ?

Par. Is 't not the heynousest that can be thought on ? Who euer saw any one apprehended For an adulterer in a bawdie house ? Pyth.

I know not that .

Par. But that thou maist know 't I tell thee ( Pythias ) t is my Masters sonne . Prth.

What , is t I pray ?

Par. Therefore let Thais looke then , She suffer him sustaine no iniurie . But why do I my selfe not reseue him ? Pyth. Parmeno consider what you go about . Lest you not helpe him , and yet cast away Your selfe foreuer . For they do imagine That all is done is of your practising . Enter the all man , Lacher . Par. What shall I do then wretch ? or what contriue . But lo , I see my old Master newly come Out o' the countrey : were I best acquaint him What is befalne or not ? I le tell him , sure ; Though I do know , I shall pay soundly for it . But I must do ot , that he may helpe his sonne . Pyth. I , thou doost wisely . I le goe in . Deline . Euery thing to him , as it chanc'd in order .
Scen. 6. Lach. MY Country grange yeelds this commoditie , I find no irksomenesse in field , or citie : I can shift place , being of either wearie . But is not yond our Parmeno ? t is he . Who waite you here for before Thais doore ? Par.

Who 's that 's oh Master ' you are wellcome home .

Lach.

Who wait'st thou here for ?

Par. I 'm vndone , my Tongue Falters for scare . Lach. How 's this ? why shakst thou so ? Tell me , 's all well here ? Par. Master first I craue You would conceiue the matter as it stands : That what so ere hath happend , hath not come Through any fault of mine . Lach.

Say , what it is ?

Par. Indeede you vrge the question orderly : I should haue first opend the cause to you . Phaedria bought an Eunuch to bestow vpon her here Lach.

Vpon whom here ?

Par.

Thais .

Lach. Bought saist thou ? I am certainely vndone . What cost he ? Par.

Twentie pound .

Lach.

All 's lost .

Par.

Chaerea doos loue a minstrell wench here .

Lach. Ha! Besides What , loues saist thou ? doos he alreadie know What a whore meanes ? is he got to towne too ? One mischiefe broodes another . Par. Pray you sir Do not so eye me . This he dooes not do vpon my setting on . Lach. Sirtha , leaue talke Touching thy selfe . If I liue ( pillorie ) I le but vnfold first th' whole bus'nesse to me . Par.

Chaerea was brought to Thais for that Eunuch .

Lach.

How ! for an Eunuch ?

Par. Yes sir , afterward They haue taken him for an adulterer ; And bound him . Lach.

Oh , I 'm undone for euer .

Par.

Pray note ( good sir ) these strumpets insolence .

Lach. Is there yet any further mischiefe left , Or ill vnutterd . Par.

This is all .

Lach. Why stay I From breaking in vpon 'hem ? Par. There 's no doubt But I incurre some famous punishment : But since I must do 't of necessitie , I ioy yet I shall worke these queanes some mischiefe . For th' old man long hath sought occasion To plague 'hem soundly : now at last has found one . Enter Pythias .
Scen. 7. Pyth. TRroth for this many aday there has not chanced An accident more pleasant then this now ; To see the old man come in so mistaken : 'T was sport to me alone of all the rest , Who knew the ground of th' error . ha , ha , he . Par.

What is t she laughes at ?

Pyth. I 'm come forth to With Parmeno , but where a Gods name is he ? Par.

Doos she seeke me ?

Pyth.

See where he is , I le to him meete

Par

What newes with thee now Giglet ?

Pyth.

Ha , ha , he .

Par.

What meanst thou ? why this laughter ? goest thou on ?

Pyth. Ha , ha , ha , he . Oh-oh-I burst , I faint With laughing at thee . Par.

Wherefore ?

Pyth. dost thou aske ? Vpon my troth I neuer in my life Knew a more errand foole , nor euer shall . Ha , ha , ha , he — it cannot be expressed What pastime thou hast made vs yond' within : And yet ( good truth ) at first I tooke thee for A very wise and cunning pated fellow . Par.

Why what 's the matter ?

Pyth. What at the first dash Oughtst thou to credit euery thing I said ? What didst thou thinke the braue exploit too little , The rash youth ventred through thy setting on ; vnlesse thou further diddst discouer him vnto his father ? prithe , tell me one thing ; What thinkst thou Cherea thought , when now his father Found him so fine drest in an Eunuchs habit ? How is t ? seest thou yet , thou art ripe for hanging ? Par.

How ? what saist thou pestilent queane , diddst lye then ?

Pyth.

Ha , ha , ha , he .

Par. And keep'st a laughing still too ? Thinkst thou t is such fine pastime ( harlotrie ) To make a scorne of me ? Pyth.

ô yes ; sport a life .

Par

I , if perchance thou carry 't away , scotfree .

Pyth

Indeede la ?

Par.

I le crie quittance o' my credit .

Pyth. Yes sure . We shall haue , time yet , Parmeno : For thee , thou art to be truss'd vp presently ; Who fleshest heedlesse youth in vilanie And then betraist him to discouerie . Father and sonne will both make thee an example . Par.

I am a dead man .

Pyth. Looke you ' this y' haue got For the Eunuch you late vsherd home to vs . Exit Pythias . Farewell . Par. Vnluckie I am caught iust like a rat , Trac'd by my noise , mine owne vnheedie chart Enter thraso and Gnato .
Scen. 8. Gna. WHat do we now ? on what hopes ? or with what Purpose Do we come hither ? what intend you Traso ? Thr. Who , I to yeeld my selfe to Thais mercie , Do all she shall inioyne . Gna.

What is t you say ?

Thr. Why Hesse , then the valiant Hercuies , Who condiscended to serue 〈◊〉 ? Gna. I like the precedent Would I yet might see Her cracke your crowne once with her pantefle . Enter Chaerea . What newes ? her doore opes . Thr. what new mischief 's this ? I nere saw this man yet : what may it meane , That he comes foorth so hastily and iocond ?
Scen. 9. Chae. OH louing countriemen , liues any man More happie then my selfe ? troth , I thinke none The Gods haue shewne all their full might on me , On whom so sodainely so many chances , So many prosperous chances meete in one . Par.

Why is he growne so merie ?

Gnae. Oh my dearest , My kindest Parmeno ' first fashioner , Contriuer , finisher , of all my fortunes ; All my contentments . Knowest thou Parmeno What ioy I am in ? hearest thou my Pamphila Is found to be free borne ? Par.

Yes ; I haue heard so .

Chae.

Made sure to me ?

Par.

As God shall helpe me , I 'm Glad on t .

Gna.

do y' heare him what he saies ?

Chae. I ioy beside My brother Chedria's loue is now faire setled : W' are made one house ; Thais hath giu'n vp her selfe Vnto my fathers kindnesse and protection : Shee 's now our owne . Par.

Then she is all your brothers .

Chae.

That 's most certaine .

Par. Then ( that 's other cause The sculdier is cashierd hence . Chae. now I prithee ( of ioy ) Giue thou my brother notice of this newes , Where ere he may be found ; and speedily . Par.

I le seeke for him at home .

Thr. Doost thou now Gnato Make any doubt , but I am lost for euer ? Gna.

Sure I iudge so

Chae. What should I first count on ? Whom chiefely praise ? or him that counseld me Or yet my selfe that venturd the performance ? Or shall I not yeeld fortune share of praise , Which guided these things thus ? Which in one day Hath closed vp so many , so great things , And all so timely orderd ? or the easie And pleasant disposition of my father ? Oh I beseech thee , gratious Iupiter . Continue to vs this our happinesse Enter Phaedria . Phae. Your faith good Gods ! What things aboue beleefe Hath our man told me ? but where is my brother ? Cha.

Here .

Pha.

I am lad —

Chae. I well beleeue you , brother There is none liuing more deseruing loue Then this your Thais : she 's a furtherer To all our family Pha. Why , how now brother , Commendst thou her to me ? Thr. I am vndone : The lesser hope I haue , the more I loue . Helpe Gnato at a pinch ; my trust 's in thee . Gna.

What wold you haue me do ?

Thr. Win by intreatie , By money . I may hold some place neere Thais . Gna.

T is a hard taske .

Thr. Come , I know thee Gnato . If once thou vndertak'st a thing — worke this , And name but what reward or gift thou lt haue And thou shalt hau 't . Gna.

Say you so ?

Thr.

I , and will Performe it .

Gna. If I performe it , I require your house Do euer open rest at my command , Be you within or not : that though vnbidden I still haue roome and welcome giuen me Thra

Here is my hand thou shalt .

Gna. Then I will settle To the attempt . Phae.

Whom heare I here ? ô Thraso !

Thra.

God saue you .

Phae.

Thou perhaps hear'st not the Newes ?

Thra

Yes , I know all .

Phae. Why do I see you then Here in these quarters ? Thr. Sir as resting onely Vpon your loue . Phae. Know'st thou not , what to rest on ? I tell thee souldier , if I here hence forward Do take thee in this streete ; th' art a dead man : It will auaile you little then to say You sought some man , or were to passe this way . Gna.

Nay good sir this not fitteth .

Phae.

I haue said it .

Gna.

I know you are not of such boistrous temper .

Phae.

It shall so stand .

Gna. Pray yet first giue me hearing Of a few words ; which when I shall haue said As you do like it , grant it . Phae.

Well , let 's heare .

Gna. Thraso remoue your selfe a little of . First I most earnestly request you both Thus farre to credit me ; that what herein I do , is chiefely for my owne sake meant : But if the same may likewise further you , T were simplenesse in you not to admit it . Phae.

What is t ?

Gna. I thinke fit , you take vnto you This riuall souldier . Phae.

How saist ? take him to vs ?

Gna. Pray but consider this ; you Phaedria Do surely loue your Thais companie , And to fare well : little you haue to giue her , And she of force must be supplied largely . Now then to serue her turne , and spare your cost , There 's none can be more fitting , or more vsefull Then is this souldier : first has where withall , And then there 's none more lauish the's a foole A prating babling foole , a dolt , a blocke , will snore you out whole dayes , and nights together . And for the feare that she may happe to loue him , That 's needelesse : you may pelt him out at pleasure : Phae.

What were we best to do ?

Gna. Then adde this too ; ( Which I accompt a thing of greatest moment . ) None fares more richly , none more daintily . Phae. Its mar'le but we haue neede at any hand Of this same fellow . Chae.

That 's my iudgement too .

Gna. You take the right course . One thing more I beg , I may be made one of your companie : I haue beene long now rowling of this stone . Phae.

We admit thee .

Chae.

Yes , and freely .

Gna. Phaedria , And haeria in requitall , twixt you both I tender him to flout , and feede vpon . Chae.

We like it .

Phae.

He deserues it .

Gna. Thraso , now You may draw neere at pleasure . Thra. Gnato , say How stands my case ? Gna. How ? these men knew you not After I told , hem your conditions , Prais'd you according to your deeds and vertues ; I wonne my sute . Thra. It was well done , I thanke thee I neuer yet could come in any place But all men doated on me . Gna. Said I not : How gracefull was his tongue for eloquence ? Phae.

Thou left'st out nothing . Passe we this way hence .

Exeunt all but Gnato .
Addition . Epilogue by Gnato . AThens and Rome full many ages hence Haue through Menanders , Plautus , Lerence Art ( In seuerall names but sounding to one sence ) Seene this our Eunuch , grac'd the flatterers part . Those Greeke and Latine playes had their desart , Earning loude plaudits from their audience . Our English Author ( h' has no Poets name , Nor ( sayes he ) may he dare such stile to take ) Puts me vpon the brunt to stand the blame : Himselfe not venturing his approach to make , Nor to your censure his raw skill to stake . He thinkes me now wrought , past all feare and shame . But I the name and nature here cast off : I see amongst you no proud souldier , No selfe blowne bladder , I may pricke or scoffe . Our Nation is not guiltie of the former , Nor could I well play the flatterer : No maile if I the name now seeke to dosse Yet though I dosse the fawne ; still bend I low , Crauing your gentle pardon for vs all , And thanke you for your patience hitherto So kindely showne to vs in generall . Oh , would you deigne some further grace withall Vpon our swouning writer to bestow ; He dyes in feare least you mislike his paine , Your well clap'd hands call him to life againe .
FINIS

Faults escaped in Andria .

PAge 1. l 3. I thinke , r. Sir thinke . p. 2. l. 20. one some , 1. some one . p. 8 l. 23. round abouts , r. windeabouts . p. 9. l. 25. nothing , r. noting . p , 36. l. 1. now I , r. I. l. 16. leaue the course , r. I leaue . p. 39 l. 6. this the , r. t is the p. 17. l. 22. ought , r. oft . p. 49. O Charinus , r. who 's that Oh Charinus .

Eunuch .

Argument l. 56 hath downe , r. hath set downe . Char . of Au. l. 7 stragling , r. strugling . Pro. l. 64. playes , r. play . Ac. 1. S. 1. l. 10. not one , r. one . betweene 14 and 15 line , put in this verse , You are cast in Law , you may goe shake the care . l. 29 shee it . r. shee yet . l 32. shall allay , r. shee l allay , S. 2. l. 87 louely woman , r. lonely woman . l. 88. kinsmen , 1. kinsman . l. 112. and Eu. an Eu. l. 113. great Ladies haue , r. great Ladies onely haue . Act. 2. Sc. 3. l. vlt. his souldiers , r. the souldiers Sc. 5. l. 70. I wormeling , r. I a wormeling l. 99 whom , r. home . Ac 4 Sc. 2 l 3 ought , r. oft . l. 10. torne , r. turne . l. 12. be pent , r. here be pent . Sc. 3. l. 35. and accident , r. an accident l. 68. i● be , r. if 't be . l. 7. Simatio & Sannto , r. Simatio and Sannto l. 14. but , r. that . l. 15. or Souldiers , r. our Souldiers l. 27. thinkes , r. Thinkst l. 39. assure , r. assur'd . Act. 5. sc. 1. l. 19. lest ' him . reade , left 'hem . pag. 104. l. 6. he cause . reade , case , l. 18. Ile-but , r. I 'l — , But .

Textual Notes

The textual notes below aim at making textual corrections readable in their immediate context and facilitating access to the source text. A five-digit number preceded by 'A' or 'B' represents an EEBO-TCP filenumber. A notation like "6-b-2890" means "look for EEBO page image 6 of that text, word 289 on the right side of the double-page image." That reference is followed by the corrupt reading. A black dot stands for an unidentified letter, a black square for an unidentified punctuation mark, a diamond for a missing word, and the ellipsis for a short span of undefined length. The corrected reading is displayed as a keyword in context.

deathere Cricquets song In the warm'd chimney portends death ere long My creede holds no such thing . Eclipsie shall find it hushed by some modest close Eclipsis , or stopping Aposiopesis ; or else couched sigured euery Scene certaine logges or billets are figured , and not baskets with prouision from the sernants Pater praeteriens modò apud forum . Did these servants attend Simo thence with billets or bauins rectisie vnderstandings ; strengthen your memories ; rectifie your wils ; and furnish you with all needfull